We compare Abdullah Shafique to Kane Williamson and Rahul Dravid: Babar Azam

Pakistan’s Abdullah Shafique has been called up to the Pakistan ODI team for the series against West Indies after his solid display against Australia in the home Test series earlier this year. His impressive performances have garnered high praises from his captain Babar Azam.

The 22- year-old recorded his maiden Test century in the opening match and followed it up with two half-centuries in the next two Tests against a top-quality Aussie bowling lineup. Babar Azam showered some high praises on the right-handed batter and he even compared Shafique to the batting greats Rahul Dravid and Kane Williamson.

“I watch and definitely enjoy Abdullah’s stylish batting. He plays very clean his stance and the way he ducks the ball are impressive. Usually, we compare him to Kane Williamson and Rahul Dravid. We call him Dravid,” the 27-year-old told a local newspaper.

Babar Azam picks Abdullah Shafique ahead of Shan Masood

Abdullah Shafique has reveled in his recent outings for the national team, but he faces stiff competition from Shan Masood for the opening spot. Masood, who is currently plying his trade in the County Championship, has made a strong statement for his selection in the national side, as the top order batter has got three half-centuries to his name to go along with two double centuries and a century for Derbyshire so far.

However, Babar believes that Shafique adds more balance to the Pakistan squad and the selections are based on the interests of improving the team rather than individual talents. “In the presence of Abdullah, the place of opener Shan Masood, another polished batter, may be in doubt, but our main aim in selecting an individual is the team’s interest,” Babar said.

Abdullah Shafique, the Sialkot-born batter, would be in line for making his debut in ODIs for the national side in the upcoming series against West Indies to be played in June. Pakistan will be playing a three-match ODI series against the West Indies at home.