Babar needs to focus on his fitness and work ethic: Younis Khan

Star batter Babar Azam has faced immense criticism after Pakistan’s embarrassing exit from the T20 World Cup 2024. After the ODI World Cup 2023, in which, Pakistan failed to qualify for the semi-finals, Babar relinquished his position as captain. However, within six months, he was reappointed as white-ball captain but Pakistan haven’t seen any success. Babar form with the bat dropped as well and is reportedly will be stripped from captaincy in the near future.

Speaking of the same, former cricketer Younis Khan noted the burden of expectations the 29-year-old has on his shoulders and advised him to focus more on his fitness and work ethic to get better. Younis also added that the players should use social media wisely and mentioned that Babar should capitalize on the opportunities as it doesn’t come around often.

Also Read: ‘I was surprised’ - Imad Wasim on Babar Azam's reappointment as Pakistan captain

“There are high expectations from Babar. Players should use social media wisely, but their real answers should come through their performances with the bat and ball. He (Babar) needs to focus on his fitness and work ethic because opportunities like these don't come around often,” said Younis at a press event in Pakistan.

Younis advised Babar to learn from Virat Kohli

Younis suggested Babar to learn from Virat Kohli and relinquish captaincy. He stated that captaincy is a small thing and the 29-year-old should focus on the larger picture, that is to perform well. Younis added that performing for the country should be of utmost importance and even after that, if there’s any energy left, one should play for himself.

“He has achieved a lot at such a young age, but what he needs to know what he wants to achieve in the future. Captaincy is a small thing, performance is what matters. Look at Virat Kohli. He chose to step down from captaincy on his own terms, and now he’s breaking records worldwide. This shows that playing for the country should be the priority. If there’s any energy left, then play for yourself,” Younis said.