During his participation in the Lanka Premier League in Sri Lanka, he is sharpening his skills in preparation for the India vs Pakistan Asia Cup 2023 match, which is scheduled to take place on September 2 at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium in Pallekele.
Following the Asia Cup, Babar will lead Pakistan in the World Cup, where they will face the 2011 champions in a thrilling encounter on October 14 at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad (the date change has not been officially confirmed by the ICC yet).
Sri Lanka wicketkeeper-batter Niroshan Dickwella, who is Babar’s captain in the Colombo Strikers team in the LPL, spoke to TimesofIndia.com and provided insights into Babar’s training for the Asia Cup and World Cup.
“He is playing white ball cricket in Sri Lankan conditions, which is a good opportunity for him. The Sri Lankan wickets can be tricky at times. The Colombo wicket is slow and gripping, while Kandy offers a batting-friendly and high-scoring surface. Babar is always prepared and ready to dominate any format. He is well-prepared for both the Asia Cup and World Cup (against India),” Dickwella, who has played 54 Tests, 55 ODIs, and 28 T20Is for Sri Lanka, said in an interview with TimesofIndia.com.
Babar Azam (AFP Photo)
“Whether it’s red ball or white ball, Test cricket or T20Is, Babar always prepares for every challenge and condition,” the Sri Lankan added.
Babar has played 4 matches in the LPL so far, with scores of 7, 59, 41, and 104.
According to Dickwella, Babar has his sights set on the crucial match against India.
“Babar never takes off his pads. He always has them on, even during practice sessions. He spends a lot of time at the nets, batting for longer periods. He is dedicated to improving himself every day and becoming a better player. Being in the top 3 in all formats is a huge achievement for him. He is not only a wonderful player but also a wonderful human being. I’m confident that he will perform exceptionally well and be among the top run-scorers in the Asia Cup and World Cup,” Dickwella concluded in his interview with TimesofIndia.com.
‘PANT BEST ATTACKING KEEPER’
Dickwella, who has 224 dismissals (185 catches and 39 stumpings) as a wicketkeeper-batter for Sri Lanka, named Rishabh Pant as the best-attacking wicketkeeper batter in world cricket.
Pant, who is recovering from injuries sustained in a car accident last December, is making significant progress in his rehabilitation.
“I have a great admiration for Wriddhiman Saha. His glovework is exceptional, and he has the best hands. He brings a lot of experience to the table. As for aggressive wicketkeeper-batters, I consider Rishabh Pant to be the best in the world at the moment. I hope he recovers swiftly and returns to the team soon,” Dickwella concluded.