Pakistan red-ball skipper Shan Masood has come to the defense of the out-of-form batter Babar Azam ahead of the third and final Test against Australia, saying that the 29-year-old is the main player and will have a significant impact in the Sydney Test.

In 2023, Babar Azam struggled significantly in Test cricket, failing to register a single half-century. Following the aftermath of the 2023 World Cup, he was subsequently removed from the position of Test captain. “Babar Azam is our main player. We have no concerns over his performance. His approach is positive. He is practicing for hours in the nets and has great fitness. I am looking forward to him scoring big in the Sydney Test,” said Masood during the pre-match press conference.