'If you back players, they can come out of it' - Babar Azam opens up on his supportive message for Virat Kohli

Pakistan skipper Babar Azam came out in support of Virat Kohli as the former India skipper has been going through a lean patch. While there have been many veteran cricketers and pundits who have extended their support for Kohli and backed him in his tough phase, Babar’s post for Kohli saying ‘This too shall pass. Stay Strong’ won many hearts.

Kohli stepped down from T20I captaincy with the main aim to improve his performance in the game and get back to form. But even that move has not worked out for him. Instead, Kohli has missed out on a number of games in the recent past. After being rested for the T20I series against South Africa, he could not succeed in the rescheduled Test against England.

Babar was one among the many who backed Kohli amidst his struggle. Addressing the media in a recent press conference ahead of the upcoming Test series against Sri Lanka, Babar was asked about the tweet that he shared on Friday as he posted a candid picture with Kohli with a supportive message.

“Kohli is one of the finest players. As a player myself, I know you can go through such a phase (out of form). If you back players, they can come out of it,” he said.

India and Pakistan will meet in Asia Cup

India and Pakistan have been arch-rivals in the world of cricket. The two teams have faced each other in several competitions. In their last meeting, at the ICC 2021 T20 World Cup, Pakistan thrashed the Virat Kohli-led Indian side by 10 wickets. But even then, the cricketers of the two nations were seen indulging in some laughter on the field post the game.

The two teams will soon be clashing at the upcoming Asia Cup, which is scheduled to begin in August. Thereafter, India will take on Pakistan on October 23, 2022 at the T20 World Cup in Australia.