KARACHI: Peshawar Zalmi's new captain Babar Azam is upbeat for a new challenge in this year's Pakistan Super League (PSL).
Speaking to media ahead of their first PSL 8 contest against Karachi Kings on February 14, Babar said he had a good time with Kings but now he is determined to lead Zalmi from the front.
"I played with Karachi for six seasons. I enjoyed my time there and it felt like a family," shared PSL's highest run-scorer.
"Now it's time to lead Peshawar where I also feel like a family. I got same love and support here and I am really looking forward to continue my performances for Peshawar," said the right-handed batter.
Under the leadership of Babar, Zalmi did intensive training sessions throughout the last week. Babar, who won ICC Cricketer of the year (2022), was seen practicing hard in the nets ahead of the tournament.
Speaking about practicing some new shots and working on different technique, Babar said he always tries to bring variations in his batting.
"Learning never stops for me. It's my routine to do intensive practice and without it, my day is incomplete," he highlighted.
"I try to not being particular when it comes to training. I try and do practice in every possible manner to become better and better," he added.
Babar has so far scored 2413 runs in 68 PSL outings at an average of 42.33. He has 23 PSL fifties under his belt.
Karachi vs Peshawar
Babar said healthy rivalries are a real flavour of PSL. Zalmi captain looks forward to playing against Kings.
"It's always exciting to play against each other in PSL. I played for Karachi previously and now I will be playing against them. I am really looking forward to it," he said.
"Karachi have good bowlers and it's always challenging and exciting to play against quality bowlers. You will see good contest against them," he added.
Babar's Zalmi will take on Imad's King tomorrow in second match at National Stadium, Karachi.
Muzamil Asif