“Wrong perception that we’re scared of Australia”: Babar Azam defends Pakistan’s approach and Rawalpindi’s pitch ahead of the 2nd test in Karachi

Amidst all the criticism, Babar Azam has defended the approach of Pakistani batters in the Rawalpindi test that ended in a draw.

The first of the three Tests between Australia and Pakistan had ended in a draw. There was absolutely no support for the bowlers, and a total of 14 wickets fell during the game. Pakistan scored 476-4 in the first innings, whereas they ended at 252-0 in the second. The 2nd test will be played at the National Stadium in Karachi from tomorrow.

There has been a lot of criticism around the pitch at Rawalpindi, and Karachi’s pitch can be a better one. Australia batter David Warner heavily criticized the pitch of Rawalpindi. Warner said that the pitch has nothing for the bowlers. He also hoped about having a good pitch for the second Test in Karachi.

Babar Azam defends Pakistan’s approach in Rawalpindi test

Amidst all the talks, Pakistan captain Babar Azam has defended the pitch controversy around Rawalpindi Test. Azam said that each venue has its different challenges and the perception about fearing Australia is completely wrong. Australia just managed to scalp four wickets of Pakistan through the game.

“Every venue has different condition. Nothing to worry,” Babar told the reporters.

“This is a wrong perception that we’re scared of Australia or Pakistani batters played with a defensive approach in Rawalpindi Test.”

Babar Azam “Every venue has different condition. Nothing to worry. This is a wrong perception that we’re scared of Australia or pakistani batters played with a defensive approach in Rawalpindi Test. We didn’t prepared pitch for Rawalpindi Test due to fear from Australia” #PAKvAUS

— Arfa Feroz Zake (@ArfaSays_) March 11, 2022

Apart from Azam, Pakistan batter Imam-ul-Haq also defended the pitch yesterday. Imam had the time of his life in Rawalpindi scoring 157 (358) and 111* (223) across two innings. Imam cited an example of one of their away tours stating how all home sides make pitches according to their strengths.

“A draw is something nobody wants to see,” Imam had told ESPNcricinfo on Thursday.

“But when we go to Australian conditions, they don’t make pitches consulting us but make it according to their will so I think we should see our strength and should live up to our strength.”