Moin Khan criticizes PCB's treatment of son Azam: Details here
Former Pakistan Test captain Moin Khan has voiced his concern about his son Azam's declining self-assurance, attributing it to the treatment he has received from the country's cricket board. He specifically blamed ex-PCB chairman Ramiz Raja for negatively impacting his son's career. Moin confidently asserts that Azam's performance in the 2024 ICC T20 World Cup in the USA demonstrated his ideal suitability for the wicket-keeper role. Here's more.
Moin Khan questions PCB's strategy
Moin expressed his confusion over the sudden change in strategy after just one match. "I watched the entire World Cup and the matches leading up to it, and it seemed like Azam was the number one choice for wicket-keeping and batting. Then suddenly, after just one match, the entire strategy was changed," he stated as per PTI. This abrupt shift came after Azam's performance was criticized by fans due to his fitness issues and disappointing performance against the US team.
Moin Khan laments lack of player development
Moin expressed disappointment over the lack of opportunities given to Azam after his poor performance in one match. "Azam wasn't given a chance to keep wickets after one match and was dropped after getting out on the very first ball (against USA). Any player can get out on the first ball, but here the tradition of developing players that used to exist is no longer there," he lamented.
Moin Khan blames Raja for Azam's career struggles
Moin accused Raja of hindering his son's career by removing Azam from the 2021 ICC T20 World Cup squad shortly after taking over as PCB chairman. "At that time, if the chief selector had made a wrong selection, he should have been removed, but they didn't have the courage, and as a result, they demoralized a young player," he said. Despite this criticism, Moin acknowledged that Azam also needs to work on his physical and mental strength.
Moin Khan supports Shaheen Afridi as captain
Moin voiced his support for pacer Shaheen Afridi as the white-ball captain, stating that he is well-liked by players and an excellent choice for T20 captaincy. He also advocated for a single captain across all formats to improve team performance. "Players may not listen to their captain if there are constant changes. If the cricket board provides full support to the captain and assures them of a long-term responsibility, the team's performance will improve," he advised.
Azam's T20I numbers for Pakistan and struggles
The wicketkeeper batter featured in one match versus the USA during the ICC T20 World Cup. USA's Nosthush Kenjige picked up Azam's wicket (0 off 1) after an LBW appeal. Since his debut in 2021, Azam has struggled with the bat, showcasing a lackluster performance in all T20I matches he has played. Overall, in T20Is, Azam has featured in 14 matches and has managed 88 runs at a rate of 133.33. His highest score is 30* vs Ireland in 2024.
