It was Babar's decision to bat one-down: Inzamam-ul-Haq

LAHORE: Peshawar Zalmi Team Director Inzamam-ul-Haq revealed that skipper Babar Azam himself chose to bat at the one-down position.

Opting to bat first, Islamabad United posted 143 for the loss of nine wickets in their allocated 20 overs.

Peshawar Zalmi successfully chased a target of 144 runs, completing the match in just 16.4 overs with six wickets remaining and 20 balls to spare here at Gaddafi Stadium on Friday.

While speaking in the post-match press conference, Inzamam backed young talent Maaz Sadaqat and reaffirming support for skipper Babar Azam’s batting position.

“Firstly, Babar is a World Cup-class player, and we did not change his batting order.”

“He is our captain, so he himself realised that he should play one-down and send Mitchell Owen as an opener due to power hitting.”

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He also emphasised Babar Azam’s strike rate, stating that if he improves, it will benefit Pakistan.

“Improving his strike rate will benefit both Pakistan and Peshawar Zalmi,” he said.

He acknowledged Zalmi’s slow start to the tournament, lamenting defeats in the opening matches.

“Had we played the initial matches better, we wouldn’t be in this position,” he said.

Inzamam was full of praise for youngster Maaz Sadaqat, who impressed with the bat.

“Maaz played a brilliant innings today. His temperament stood out — that’s a key quality in T20 cricket,” he observed.

“Things can get delayed at times, but Maaz got his opportunity at the right moment — and he made the most of it,” Inzamam added.

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Commenting on the nature of T20S, he said, “It’s a fast format. You have to take chances — that’s how this game works.”

Regarding Pacer Ihsanullah’s inclusion, Inzamam-ul-Haq said that he will get his chances in the upcoming matches.

“He was in discussion for today’s match. Hopefully, he’ll get his chance in the coming games,” he concluded.

READ: PSL 10: Babar, Maaz star as Peshawar Zalmi thump Islamabad United

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