South African spinner Tabraiz Shamsi shared his strategies to combat Pakistani batsman Babar Azam.
In a recent interview with a local sports website, Shamsi admitted that although he has not formulated a specific plan to dismiss Babar Azam, he remains confident in his experience playing against him.
“I have not yet come up with a specific plan to dismiss Babar Azam as my focus was on the Guyana tournament. However, having faced him before, I have an idea of what to do. He is a great player and when he returns, I will sit down with the analysts to develop plans that benefit the team,” said Shamsi.
Despite his decision to turn down the South African Cricket Board’s central contract, he clarified that his commitment to representing his country remains unwavering.
“It was a personal choice made for a number of reasons, but representing South Africa has always been my top priority. Even though I refused the contract, I made it clear that I would always be available for the national team whenever necessary. it is the most significant honor and no cricket franchise can surpass it. My aim in every match is to contribute to the team’s success, be it through bowling or batting,” he said.
The 34-year-old also discussed the evolving role of spinners in T20 cricket, which some believed would diminish with the rise of power hitting.
Contrary to this belief, he argued that spinners continue to be essential in T20 cricket.
“When T20 cricket started, people thought it would mark the decline of spinners, but the opposite happened. Slow bowlers have always been critical to their teams’ success. While powerplays and fielding restrictions can sometimes make it seem like the game favors batsmen, spinners have the ability to turn matches in their teams’ favor with strategic planning,” he explained.
Shamsi also expressed his disappointment at the online criticism directed at the players.
“People often think it’s acceptable to criticize players online, but that shouldn’t happen. Through my tweets, I have tried to clear up any misunderstandings, reiterating that I am always available for South Africa,” he said.
Reflecting on his experience playing for two-time PSL champions Lahore Qalandars in the recently concluded T20 Global League, Shamsi was full of praise for the Pakistan franchise.
“Being part of a big franchise in Pakistan was an incredible experience. Lahore Qalandars are professionally trained and have won the PSL twice. Playing for them was an honor,” he added.
The left-arm spinner also praised former Pakistan spinner Saeed Ajmal, describing him as an inspirational figure in the world of cricket.
“It is difficult to choose one, but Saeed Ajmal was truly inspiring. I studied his bowling closely. His ability to spin the ball both ways was exceptional and our styles are quite similar. I also admired Brad Hogg’s bowling,” he noted.
He also shared his thoughts on South Africa’s devastating defeat in the T20 World Cup final clash against India, describing it as a painful experience.
“Losing the final was heartbreaking, especially because we were so close to winning. But we cannot change the past. Our focus now is on the future and on working to overcome our weaknesses”, he concluded.
It is pertinent to mention that the Proteas will face the Men in Green in an upcoming white-ball and red-ball series starting December 10.
Pakistan to South Africa trip schedule:
