Azam Khan has slammed Pakistan's cricket system (the PCB) and its coaches for not providing him with a fair opportunity to showcase his skills at the international level. In a recent interview with Shoaib Malik, former Pakistan's star wicketkeeper-batter Moin Khan's son Azam Khan used strong words that may not sit well with many PCB officials and former officials.
Currently Azam is participating in the UAE's International League T20 (ILT20) as part of the Desert Vipers. The 25-year-old will soon return to Pakistan to join Islamabad United, led by Shadab Khan, for the ninth edition of the Pakistan Super League (PSL).
Azam Khan runs riot with bat
In the 19th game of the ILT20, Azam belted a quickfire half-century, scoring 50 runs from just 20 deliveries against the Gulf Giants. His powerful hitting abilities illuminated the Dubai Sports City cricket stadium, where he maintained an astounding strike rate of 250. During his innings, Azam hit a total of 9 boundaries, comprising 5 fours and 4 sixes. His performance played a vital role in the Vipers successfully chasing down the target of 162 set by the Giants. Currently, the Desert Vipers are in a favorable position to qualify for the knockout rounds, occupying the 4th spot in the league table. Their next fixture is scheduled against the Dubai Capitals on February 9.
Azam Khan hits out at PCB
Following a break from his duties with the Desert Vipers, Azam Khan featured in a conversation with Pakistan's veteran batter Shoaib Malik in an interview, where they discussed various topics. When asked about the number of opportunities he has received to represent the national team, Azam did not hold back in his response and slammed PCB.
“I always think that whenever I play league (franchise) cricket, I get a lot of opportunities because they know i can win them games and that is why they call me over. But if you are putting doubts on my head that I’m not good enough at this level then its fine as i will look for my own way out as well.” – Azam Khan told Shoaib Malik.
Talking about Azam's performance so far, he has played eight T20Is for Pakistan, typically batting in the number six position. He was also a part of the Pakistan team that suffered a 4-1 defeat to New Zealand in a five-match T20I series.
The 25-year-old candidly expressed that he would consider other options if the PCB clarifies its stance on his future.
'Don't hang my chances over the edge'
“I have staged 3 different comebacks in the last 4 years and I have never played a full series (for Pakistan) so that definitely hurts. Either you kick me out entirely after giving a full series but don’t hang my chances over the edge,” Azam added.
“I play all of my cricket with a clear mind and whenever anyone put fears in my plans then I get frustrated. Whenever I play with foreign coaches, they never make me feel like that I’m lacking somewhere. But whenever I play for Pakistan, they make me feel like I’m not that good of a cricketer,” Azam signed off.
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