Babar says he will back Pakistan’s young Test side on demanding overseas tours

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Test captain Babar Azam has said he is returning to the role with greater clarity and confidence, adding that he intends to support a youthful squad while maintaining strict standards on discipline, fitness and performance.

Speaking in an exclusive interview on Straight Drive with Salman Butt, Babar said leading the national side remained a matter of pride and that his earlier stint as captain had helped shape his approach this time. He said experience as both skipper and player had given him maturity and a clearer understanding of the role.

He said he had reflected on decisions from his previous captaincy tenure and tried to draw lessons from them. According to Babar, that review process helped him rebuild his mindset and approach the responsibility in a more positive way.

Pakistan’s captain also highlighted the make-up of the current red-ball side, saying the team includes a number of strong performers from domestic cricket. He said the responsibility of a senior player and captain was not only to get performances from younger cricketers, but also to keep them at ease and stand by them during difficult periods because of the pressure that comes with international cricket.

At the same time, Babar made clear that certain standards would remain non-negotiable under his leadership.

“My main focus is on three things: discipline, fitness and performance. These will matter a lot for me as captain and for the team going forward. Whenever I get the opportunity to lead, I always try to back the players, but I will not compromise on these three things”, he stated.

Looking ahead, Babar said Pakistan had prepared with conditions in mind for upcoming tours of the West Indies and England. He described the West Indies assignment as a tough one, but said the side had readied itself for that challenge. On England, he noted that several Pakistan players have county cricket experience, which he said should help the team adapt to local conditions.

Babar also spoke about his own batting method, saying his focus is shaped by the team’s needs rather than personal considerations. He said he adjusts according to the match situation, whether that requires a quicker scoring rate in Test cricket or a more restrained approach.

His remarks come as Pakistan prepare for demanding overseas red-ball assignments, with the captain stressing both planning and a positive mindset as central to how he wants the team to move forward.