WATCH: Babar Azam struggling to maintain mental composure? Star Pakistan cricketer sparks controversy with bold statement

In a recent interview in New Delhi, Shoaib Akhtar, also known as the Rawalpindi Express, shared his thoughts on Babar Azam's performance and suggested that he take a break during the upcoming South Africa tour to rest and focus on his mental well-being. Akhtar highlighted the significance of mental health in effectively managing the pressures of the game and navigating the challenges of a professional cricket career.

It is worth noting that former Pakistani captain Babar Azam is constantly facing criticism after his poor performance. Meanwhile, former team fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar supported him. He advised Babar that he needs to avoid criticism from outsiders. Shoaib also urged the fans that how much more do you want to criticize Babar?

WATCH VIDEO BELOW:

A piece of advice by Shoaib Akhtar for Babar Azam & Fans
Game on Hai aired on 18-12-2024@shoaib100mph #GameOnHai pic.twitter.com/7l7JU7CVb4

— PTV Sports (@PTVSp0rts) December 19, 2024

Advised to take rest:
Shoaib Akhtar said on PTV Sports’ Game On Hen show that perhaps it would have been better for Babar Azam to rest for the South Africa tour. He also said that Babar Azam has to prove himself that he is the best batsman.

Akhtar said, “how much more do you want to criticize Babar? But it doesn’t matter. Look, this is Babar’s mistake and the truth too, don’t play cricket like this, now that you are there, you have to come out of the bad phase.”

The speedster further said, “for a big tournament, it is important to rest, recover well and keep your mental health right. In sports also, everything is controlled by mental health and keep it intact. There are ups and downs in the game, people talk, you flop, fail, but amidst all these things, you get up and fight.”

Shoaib Akhtar said, “we are there to help you (Babar Azam), but you have to come out of the bad phase. There is no other option. I am not saying that you should be dropped from the team, this is not an option. The option is that you have to prove to the world once again that I am the best.”