PAK vs NZ: Kane Williamson calls Babar Azam a “serious threat”. New Zealand captain Kane Williamson expressed faith on Thursday that former Pakistan captain Babar Azam can return to peak form, stating that his recent bad record did not affect his abilities.
Williamson called Azam a “significant threat” the day before the two teams were scheduled to play each other in a five-match T20 international series.
Azam’s performance has decreased during the last few months in a number of formats. He was the highest-ranked ODI batter going into the 2023 World Cup, however he only scored 320 runs. Azam’s average in the last three Test matches against Australia was merely 21, and he only made 126 runs.
While acknowledging that Azam is a top-tier talent, Williamson hinted that any player’s form can change during a press conference on Thursday.
“Azam is an elite player in his field. Managing each day and trying to get better is just one aspect of the wide spectrum of sentiments and emotions that come with being a cricket player. He is among the world’s finest players, so I have no doubt that he will continue to accomplish that.”
After the 2023 ODI World Cup, Azam resigned as captain of all forms. He will try to get back into shape.
Williamson also thought about how Pakistan is always a tough opponent for the Kiwis and remembered that the Men in Green won the tri-series that preceded the 2022 T20 World Cup.
“There is always a great opportunity in Pakistan. It’s amazing to have them here in our backyard for another battle, as they are consistently one of the finest teams in the world, regardless of the circumstances. A tri-series series was played before the last World Cup. We are aware of their strength because they not only prevailed in that tournament but also clearly advanced in it.
