Azam Khan Blasts Pakistan Coaches, Praises International Leagues For Backing Him
Azam Khan has failed to cement his place in the Pakistan team
Pakistan's explosive keeper-batter Azam Khan, known for his performances in T20 leagues around the globe, recently shared his experiences and challenges at the international level. Despite his success in leagues internationally, Azam has struggled to secure a permanent spot in the Pakistan T20I team since his debut in January 2021.
Azam Khan voices frustration over Pakistan team management
His journey saw a significant moment when he was selected for the 2021 ICC Men's T20 World Cup squad, only to be replaced by Sarfaraz Ahmed the following month. With just eight T20Is under his belt and a total of 29 runs, Azam's international career has been a rollercoaster.
Azam voiced his frustrations with how he is managed in league cricket compared to his experiences with the national team, highlighting the differences in coaching approaches.
He pointed out that his talent and potential to win matches are fully acknowledged in league cricket, leading to ample opportunities. In contrast, he feels that the national team management's doubts about his international suitability have been a source of personal frustration.
"When I participate in league cricket, I get full opportunity because they recognize my ability to win matches, which is why I'm invited to play. However, if you are putting doubts in my head that I'm not suited for this level, then I'm prepared to seek my path. Over the past four years, I've managed to make a comeback three times, yet it's disheartening that I've never been given the chance to participate in an entire series,” said Azam in a recent interview.
He voiced his desire for a fair chance to prove himself, stating a preference for being allowed to play a whole series to demonstrate his capabilities rather than being uncertain. Azam also mentioned feeling undervalued and critiqued within the Pakistan team, a stark contrast to the confidence and support he receives from foreign coaches in league cricket.
Despite the challenges, he remains confident in his batting skills, asserting that he sees no difference between himself and other top players.
“My stance is clear: either allow me the opportunity to play through a full series and then make a decision about my future, or let me go, but leaving me in limbo is unfair. I approach my cricket with clarity and focus, but when doubts are introduced to me, it leads to frustration. When I play under foreign coaches, they never make me feel inadequate, but when I play for the Pakistan team, I actually feel I have shortcomings'. Despite this, when I evaluate my batting skills, I'm confident I'm just as good as any other player," added the 25-year-old.
Azam's comments were made during his time with the Desert Vipers in the ILT20, reflecting his ongoing commitment to excel despite the hurdles he faces with the national team setup.
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