Babar Azam pick Naseem Shah over Jasprit Bumrah

Pakistan's white-ball cricket has once again chosen Babar Azam as captain. Recently, during a podcast, the presenter asked, "Needing 10 runs in the final over, would Babar bring Jasprit Bumrah or Naseem Shah for bowling?" To which the Pakistani skipper responded that he would opt for Naseem Shah to bowl the final over. He also mentioned the reasoning behind his decision.

Shaheen Shah Afridi has been relieved of captaincy responsibilities, putting the burden back on Babar's shoulders. Ahead lies a crucial tournament like the T20 World Cup, where Pakistan will rely on Babar's leadership experience. Not long ago, he was the highest run-getter in the Pakistan Super League (PSL).

Babar, currently 29 years old, has taken on the leadership role again. Recently, during a podcast, he answered various questions from the presenter. One of the questions was about a scenario in a T20 match where 10 runs are needed in the final over. In such a situation, would Babar trust the Indian pacer Bumrah or Pakistan's Naseem to bowl the over as captain?

The Pakistani captain responded without any hesitation, favoring Naseem Shah. He added, "Firstly, I'm delighted with Naseem's return to cricket after his recovery from injury. The way he has made a comeback and the progress he has shown, it's commendable. I knew it would take some time. However, he was committed to playing in the PSL."

"He possesses a certain skill set. You rarely see such talented faces in Pakistan cricket. Here, others have to speak as well. Like Shaheen Shah Afridi, he has a unique style, he's experienced. Naseem is also following Shaheen's path in terms of experience."

Naseem suffered a hand injury during the Asia Cup last year. He subsequently missed the ICC T20 World Cup. Due to rehabilitation and recovery, he had to stay off the field for almost six months.

After a long period, Naseem has returned to the field through PSL. From Quetta Gladiators, he has now played for Islamabad United in the tournament. As a leading bowler for United, he has taken 15 wickets in 11 innings.