‘He is one of the best T20 batsmen’ - Babar Azam keen to learn from Martin Guptill in PSL 2021

The 2021 edition of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) will take place in UAE, and all teams are gearing up to make a mark. Notably, the T20 tournament was suspended midway in March due to the COVID-19 crisis. At the time of the postponement, Karachi Kings were leading the team standings with three wins in five games. One of the main reasons behind their stellar campaign was Babar Azam’s blitzes with the bat.

With 258 runs in five outings, Azam was this tournament’s second-highest run-scorer at the time of suspension. Hence, the Pakistan captain would be determined to shine again. Moreover, Azam will join forces with New Zealand dasher Martin Guptill for the rest of the season. The Karachi-based franchise picked the Kiwi dasher in the draft ahead of the resumption. Speaking of Gupill’s addition, Babar said he’s keen to learn from the swashbuckler.

Martin Guptill can totally change the complexion of the game: Babar Azam

“I have played with Martin Guptill in the past in the Caribbean Premier League. We had a good bonding, and it was nice to play with him. He is one of the best T20 batsmen and when he is batting he can totally change the complexion of the game. His power-hitting skills are outstanding. I will try to learn from his experience because the learning process never stops,” said Babar in interaction with Cricket Pakistan.

Notably, the Imad Wasim-led Karachi Kings are the defending PSL champions and would fight to retain the title. Babar is also optimistic about Kings winning the competition second time on the trot.

“We are hopeful [about defending title] and would like to continue our good form in this season as we are currently at the top of the table. There have been some changes in the team, but the replacements have been equally good,” he concluded.

Meanwhile, the fate of PSL 2021 is still under jeopardy, with the resumption date unclear. Multiple reports suggested that PCB had planned to restart the tournament from June 5 at the Sheikh Zayed Cricket Stadium in Abu Dhabi. The final was supposed to be conducted at the same venue on June 20. However, a delay in the travel of many players has made it almost impossible for the board to start the season as per plan.