“Sometimes, people need a break…”: Shan Masood Believes Babar Will Bounce Back Strongly

In a significant shift within Pakistan cricket, Test captain Shan Masood has highlighted how Babar Azam’s temporary break from the Test squad could ultimately work in his favor. Masood believes that Azam’s absence from the format is a well-deserved respite that could lead to a resurgence of his stellar form, which had waned over a recent period.

Why Babar Azam’s Break Was Necessary

Babar Azam’s decision to step back from Test cricket reflects both the mental and physical strain elite athletes face. Taking a break allows him the chance to refocus, recharge, and return stronger for both him and his team.

Babar hasn’t scored a half-century in 18 innings, which is a concerning statistic for a player of his caliber. This slump prompted selectors and team management to consider that stepping back might be the best way forward. Shan Masood has stepped into the Test captaincy role and has shown strong leadership skills. Masood’s recent comments show his respect for Babar’s capabilities and his commitment to helping Pakistan cricket move forward collectively.

“I think he’s one of the best batsmen in the world. I’m nobody to [say he doesn’t have] a future. He has every quality to be one of the greatest batsmen in Test cricket. He’s always there or thereabouts in the rankings. Sometimes, people need a break.” Masood told the BBC Stumped radio programme.

Babar Azam’s Place in Pakistan’s White-Ball Cricket

While Babar may be on a break from Test cricket, he remains a central figure in Pakistan’s white-ball formats. He’s been called up for the upcoming ODI series against Australia, highlighting his continued importance to Pakistan’s short-format plans.

Masood has been quick to defend Babar, emphasizing his potential to come back stronger. His words echo the belief that Babar is one of the world’s top batsmen who simply needs time and space to regain his form.

Masood added, “I think this break will do him a great deal of benefit and he’ll come back a stronger player. There’s no harm in being pulled out at times and having a breather. He’s played a lot of crickets and gone through a lot, and he’ll always be one of the main batsmen to play for Pakistan.”

Future of Leadership in Pakistan Cricket

With Masood at the helm for now, there are questions about long-term leadership in Pakistan cricket. Babar’s return could alter dynamics, but Masood’s vision and teamwork focus could also shape the team’s identity moving forward.

“We thought playing on a used pitch, playing three spinners – that, we thought, would benefit us greatly. I’ve worked with three different setups in my tenure so far. My first series in Australia was different, the Bangladesh series was different, and then we’ve had this group of people that were involved in selection and leadership. I’ve been on the same page with them so far. At the end of the day, it’s about Pakistan cricket, and we’re very fortunate that the entire collective came together.”

Masood faces challenges in his new role, from managing team expectations to handling media scrutiny. His comments about collective responsibility and focus on team unity are promising and could help Pakistan through this transition.

“There are no hard feelings from my side,” Masood laughed. “I’ve always been an open book in front of the media and tried to conduct myself in the best possible way. People have every right to ask questions however they want. I want to give the best account of myself and for my character to be reflected the way I am. I’m good at taking constructive criticism and I’m also good at filtering stuff out.”

Pakistan’s Test series against South Africa is on the horizon, and fans are hopeful for Babar’s return. His experience and skill against South Africa in the past could be vital to Pakistan’s success.

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