Former Pakistan team director Mohammad Hafeez has shed light on a crucial conversation he had with star cricketers Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan during the T20I series against New Zealand.
Speaking exclusively to a local sports channel, Hafeez disclosed that he encouraged Babar and Rizwan to recognise their roles within the broader context of the team's success, reminding them that cricket is a collective effort where every player's contribution matters.
"It took me about two months to convince Babar Azam that you have to do it for Pakistan and you are not the first one who's doing it," Hafeez remarked.
"You are a great player, you are a wonderful player and you are playing great cricket; however, you have to develop Pakistan team."
The veteran cricketer stressed the need for Babar and Rizwan to embrace positional changes for the greater good of the team, particularly urging Babar to transition from his accustomed opening role to batting at number three, a position he has excelled in during One-Day Internationals.
"We need to develop a team, and for that, I want you to come at number three because you have been playing this role in the ODI cricket for the last six years," Hafeez explained.
In a display of exemplary sportsmanship, Babar Azam acceded to Hafeez's suggestion, demonstrating his commitment to the team's triumphs over personal accolades.
The move saw Babar relinquish his longstanding opening partnership with Rizwan, marking a strategic shift aimed at fortifying Pakistan's batting lineup.
Expressing gratitude towards Babar for his willingness to embrace change, Hafeez remarked, "Thank you very much to him that he accepted this and he played for Pakistan at number three which obviously I think is the best way to move."
