'Learned a lot from Saifi bhai': Babar credits Sarfaraz for making him good leader

After breaking several records in the ongoing five-match ODI series against New Zealand, Pakistan skipper Babar Azam credited former captain Sarfaraz Ahmed for being instrumental in making him a good leader on the field.

Speaking in an interview with Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Digital on Saturday, the 28-year-old captain said that Sarfaraz helped him in the captaincy department.

“The first year was a little overwhelming as there were a lot of things to deal with simultaneously as a Pakistan captain. But, I learned how to manage that. I also learned a lot from how Saifi bhai [Sarfaraz Ahmed] managed the team. I used to see his demeanour on and off the field and used to ask him questions that helped me,” said Babar.

“The most crucial bit in leading a team is to provide clarity to each and every player and have honest and open communication with the players. This breeds positivity in the team environment and brings everyone together as a team."

"As a captain, you have a kind of dual responsibility because as a non-captain, you only focus on your field and batting, but now you also have to run a team. I enjoy taking responsibility and it brings the best out of me," said the young batter.

Babar also stated, while sharing his goals, that “being the captain of a World Cup-winning side would be sweet”.

He also shed light on the important role played by former Pakistan head coach and current team director Mickey Arthur during his career.

“I want to mention Mickey as he played an integral role in my transformation. As a cricketer, there’s a feeling that if you are not up to the mark, you might get dropped from the side, but he gave me confidence.

"He asked me to give my best to the side and not worry about getting axed from the side and that helped me a great deal. He did not only do it with me but with every player in the side and that is why we have eight to nine players in the side currently from that lot,” he said.