Former Pakistan captain Aamir Sohail has advised star batter Babar Azam to work on his batting technique, stressing that improvement is essential for a strong comeback in the national side.
Speaking on a private TV programme, Sohail said he has consistently supported Babar throughout his career but believes the time has come for the batter to address technical flaws.
“I have always backed Babar Azam, but now he needs to work on his technique. Once he rectifies his weaknesses, he should inform us and we will watch his matches. If there is improvement, he will return to the team,” he remarked.
He questioned the continued selection of players despite technical shortcomings, saying it reflects a lack of seriousness in team management and overall cricketing structure.
Sohail also criticised the growing influence of T20 cricket on Pakistan’s overall approach, urging authorities to move beyond the shortest format’s mindset.
“Pakistan cricket must come out of the T20 mindset first. Young players clearly lack the ability to build an innings. The demands of 50-over cricket are different, and trying to hit boundaries on every ball increases the risk of losing wickets,” he explained.
The former captain warned that failure to shift this approach could continue to affect Pakistan’s performance in both Test and ODI formats.
He further emphasised the importance of domestic cricket, calling for mandatory participation by all players to refine their skills and technique.
Sohail also pointed to the role of former players in the decline of standards, stating that some individuals take up coaching roles after retirement without adequate knowledge, experimenting in ways that harm the development of the game rather than improving it.