Web Desk: Pakistan batting star Babar Azam opened up about his journey, influences and future ambitions in a candid conversation recorded in Saudi Arabia by English cricketer Kevin Peterson, describing the pressures of international cricket and the values that continue to guide his career.
Early Dreams and Family Support
Babar recalled developing his passion for cricket at a young age, despite family expectations that he focus on academics. He said he told his father at age 12 that he wanted to become a professional player, often spending late nights playing competitive matches with cousins on the street.
Transitioning to formal cricket, he credited Pakistan’s National Cricket Academy and early coaches especially his school coach, uncle and later Ijaz Ahmed for building his foundation. “I was able to move forward because of them,” he said.
Inspired by Legends
The batter described his admiration for Mohammad Yousuf, Inzamam-ul-Haq and South African great AB de Villiers, recalling how he once met de Villiers as a young ball picker. He later consulted him during the PSL. “You are my favorite, you are my hero,” Babar said he told the South African, noting that AB’s style and mindset shaped his own approach.
Babar also explained how conversations with modern greats including Joe Root, Kane Williamson, Virat Kohli and Steve Smith helped refine his mental game. “They gave very useful tips about mindset,” he said.
Handling Pressure and Expectation
Discussing expectations from fans in the subcontinent, he acknowledged that constant scrutiny can be overwhelming. “People expect Babar to score a hundred every game,” he said. “I am a human being sometimes you make mistakes, you fail.”
He shared that during difficult moments he shuts out outside noise and focuses on inner clarity. “I stop listening to anyone. I talk to myself, and I talk to my coach,” he said. Support from his father and mentors, including Mushtaq Ahmed, helps him regain focus.
Proudest Moments as Captain
Reflecting on his tenure as Pakistan’s captain, Babar said developing a core group of players and backing them through form fluctuations was central to his leadership style.
One of his proudest moments was Pakistan’s historic victory over India in the 2021 T20 World Cup. “As a Pakistani captain, defeating India in the World Cup was one of the best moments,” he said.
Career-Defining Performances
Babar identified Pakistan’s 2018–19 tour of South Africa as a turning point, saying tough innings against Dale Steyn and others “changed my mindset” and convinced him he belonged at the highest level.
He also highlighted his 2019 World Cup knock against New Zealand as one of his most memorable innings.
Looking Ahead
As he enters his thirties, Babar said his main goal is to win an ICC trophy for Pakistan, noting that previous near-misses in the T20 World Cup and Asia Cup still motivate him. “You just want to win the trophy with your team,” he said.
He added that maintaining fitness and form remains a priority. “That’s why I am working hard for my fitness and everything.”
