Babar Azam acknowledges Former Australian skipper Ricky Ponting's praise

Pakistan skipper Babar Azam has been an integral part of his national side from quite a few years now. The 28-year-old won the Sir Garfield Sobers Trophy for ICC Cricketer of the Year in 2022. He also won the award for ICC ODI Cricketer of the Year for the second time in a row.

Babar was over the moon when legendary Australian batter Ricky Ponting praised him recently. "I think Babar’s still got a little bit of improvement to come, which is a pretty scary thought with what he’s been able to do, pretty much across all three formats over the last three, four years," Ponting said on ‘The ICC Review’.

After hearing of Ponting’s praise towards him, the 28-year-old opined that it is always great to receive praise from one of the greatest batters of all time. 

"You get confidence when a legendary player gives you a compliment, and you try to be better. When such a huge player passes positive comments, it adds to your confidence, and you have it in your mind that such a huge player is talking well about you. Because these players have been through a similar stage, they know what mindset I have. They have been through similar scenarios and have knowledge of the game," Babar told the ICC.

Ponting also reflected on Babar’s captaincy style

Babar led Pakistan to two straight semi-finals of the T20 World Cup, but despite this fabulous achievement, Ricky Ponting opined that there is much for Babar to learn going forward, which could help him become a better captain.

Ponting also stated that he is sure that with more experience under his belt, Babar could become an excellent captain, just like he has improved with his batting over the years.

"I’m sure with a bit more experience under his belt, like he’s done with his batting, I’m sure he’ll find the right way to lead and be a very successful captain of Pakistan," said Ponting.