‘This is not leadership’ – Former Pakistan cricketer unhappy with Babar Azam’s captaincy after series loss against England

Former Pakistan Cricketer Salman Butt believes that Pakistan captain Babar Azam was too diplomatic in the press conference after his team’s loss against England by 26 runs in the Multan Test on Monday, December 12. The former opening batter feels that Babar was afraid of making honest comments following the defeat and labelled him a ‘people-pleaser’ who doesn’t want to offend anyone.

“What’s the use of such press conferences where the person is only bothered about not hurting anybody with his comments? Don’t you have your own opinions on anything? What is the use of all the big world titles when you are too scared to express your opinions? This is not leadership,” said Butt on his Youtube Channel.

Notably, Babar shined with the bat in the first innings against England in the second Test, scoring 75 runs. However, he failed to contribute when it mattered the most, being dismissed for just one run in the chase getting bowled by Ollie Robinson

Chasing a tough target of 355, the hosts were bundled out for 328 on Day 4. England have already clinched the Test series thanks to their stunning victories in the first two fixtures.

Salman Butt also spoke about how many Pakistani fans and experts have been saying that Babar Azam will get better once he has more experience as the captain.

Leadership doesn’t come with experience: Salman Butt

However, he emphasized that leadership doesn’t come with experience, highlighting how Ben Stokes has already won eight of his nine Tests as England’s skipper.

“Leadership doesn’t come with experience. Many players have been captains since their first match itself. Ben Stokes has captained just nine matches and won eight of them. Only in Pakistan do we say that the skipper will learn with time. Professionalism is lacking completely,” Butt added.

After winning the first two Tests, England will look to whitewash Pakistan by winning the third Test scheduled to be played at National Stadium, Karachi. On the other hand, Pakistan will look to salvage some pride by ending the series on a winning note.