Pakistan on Wednesday (July 20) registered an emphatic four-wicket victory over Sri Lanka in the first Test at Galle International Stadium.
Chasing 342 in the fourth innings, Pakistan rode on opener Abdullah Shafique’s unbeaten 160 to get over the line comfortably on Day 5. With this victory, the Babar Azam-led side took a 1-0 lead in the two-match Test series.
After the game, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Ramiz Raja spoke in detail about the victory and also highlighted the importance of Babar’s captaincy.
Speaking to Dawn, Ramiz also pointed out that there are many nations who try to run “cricket like football", further suggesting that teams can't progress without a strong captain.
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“There are people who try to run cricket like football. Many nations are doing it. They will realise what they've done when they complete the calendar. They will realise that if your captain isn't strong, your team can't progress. I haven't interfered in the team selections, even though I can do it. It is my right,” the PCB chief quoted.
Ramiz’s comment was probably a dig at the Indian team, which has seen six different players leading the side across three formats ever since Rohit Sharma replaced Virat Kohli as all-format captain.
While Kohli led the Test side in South Africa, KL Rahul captained the team in the longest format and ODIs on the same tour. On the other hand, Rishabh Pant and Hardik Pandya led India in T20Is against South Africa and Ireland respectively whereas Jasprit Bumrah got the opportunity to captain the country in the recently held Edgbaston Test versus England.
With Shikhar Dhawan set to lead India in the upcoming ODI series against West Indies, the number will go up to 7.
Talking about his experience as PCB chairman, Ramiz said since he is a former cricketer, he understands the issues a player might face.
“I know the strategies, I know our match-winners. But when you offer accountability and freedom to operate, the players can take the team further up with performances. You can't run cricket sitting on sidelines. It won't be a successful model. We have created a positive environment. Everyone knows I am a phone call away if there are any problems. As an ex-cricketer, I know the issues players might face, so it is important to create that sort of environment,” he remarked.
