'He knows Urdu and needs nothing else' - Saqlain Mushtaq after Tanvir Ahmed asks Babar Azam to improve his English

Pakistan’s prolific batsman Babar Azam recently hogged the headlines after he was named the ODI skipper of the national side. The 25-year-old had been named as Pakistan’s T20I skipper late last year and PCB confirmed that Babar will now lead the national side in ODIs too.

Babar, while relying on his technique and consistency, has already proved his mettle in all formats of the game. He has paved his way into the league of modern-day greats as he is currently one of the best batsmen in international cricket. After proving his worth with his willow, leading Pakistan in ODIs will be a new challenge for the prolific run-scorer.

Pakistan’s veteran off-spinner Saqlain Mushtaq, in his YouTube video, claimed that Babar possesses all the essential ingredients of leadership. However, according to Mushtaq, Babar needs to spend time with the world’s best leaders to acquire a few leadership skills.

Mushtaq proposed that Babar should sit with the game’s greats so that he could learn a thing or two. According to the veteran off-spinner, Babar will also have to learn to handle media and PCB department can help the batsman in that aspect.

‘Babar will also have to learn to handle media’: Saqlain Mushtaq

“Whenever Pakistan’s series takes place with another country the management should arrange his meetings with erstwhile greats of that country so that he may pick up their brains. He’ll also have to learn how to handle media. The PCB’s media department can help in that,” said Saqlain in the video.

Mushtaq also opined on Tanvir Ahmed’s comments on Babar’s personality. Tanvir Ahmed had raised a few eyebrows after suggesting that Babar should work on his English and overall personality after becoming the ODI skipper. However, according to Mushtaq, asking Babar to learn English is irrelevant as several world leaders speak in their mother tongues.

“Asking him to learn English is totally irrelevant. He knows Urdu and needs nothing else [to express himself]. There are several world leaders who speak in their mother tongues. An interpreter can explain whatever he says,” said Mushtaq.

“However, if you have time there is no harm in acquiring a second language, but I believe it’s not as that important for you as a captain. I believe he has leadership qualities and that’s why he’s been given the reins of team’s stewardship,” added Mushtaq.

Mushtaq also expressed that Babar should have a cup of tea with the best leaders of the sport in order to learn how to lead the side.

“I think it is very important for him to find out how to lead the team and execute his plans. Obviously, there is a need for him to sit with the best [team] leaders; have a cup of tea with them and do some gossip with the intent to learn how to take along his team,” he concluded.