Williamson praises 'elite' Babar

Express Tribune

12-02-2025

New Zealand's former captain, Kane Williamson, recently spoke highly of Pakistan's star batter Babar Azam, calling him one of the best players in the world. After his blazing century in a recent match, Williamson praised Azam's class, placing him in the league of the world's top cricketers.
"Babar Azam is certainly a part of the 'Fab Four' or 'Fab Five,' which consists of some of the finest players in the game. He is a world-class batter who consistently delivers for his team," said Williamson.
Williamson also shared his positive experience of touring Pakistan, mentioning the warm hospitality he received and the passionate crowd in Lahore. He expressed his joy at being part of such an exciting series.
The Kiwi batsman then shifted focus to his team's performance in the ongoing tri-nation series. He noted that New Zealand had played well as a unit, handling pressure effectively.
"Our team worked hard, and as a result, we got good outcomes. Devon Conway played brilliantly, and South Africa's team was equally competitive," he said.
Speaking about the match conditions, Williamson commented on how batting became easier as the day went on.
"As the evening progressed, batting became easier, and we adapted well to the changing conditions," he explained.
Williamson also provided an update on the health of Rachin Ravindra, who had taken a blow to the head while fielding in the opening match against Pakistan.
"Rachin is recovering well and is in good health, but I'm not sure if he will play in the final," Williamson added.
Williamson was in fine form in the second match, scoring an unbeaten 133 runs against South Africa. His century, which included 13 fours and two sixes, led New Zealand to a comfortable win, chasing down a target of 305 runs with eight balls remaining. This was also Williamson's first ODI hundred since the 2019 World Cup, where he scored 148 runs against the West Indies in Manchester.
New Zealand's partnership between Devon Conway and Williamson was key to the win, with the duo putting together a solid 187-run stand.
Final showdown
New Zealand batter Devon Conway believes the upcoming match between Pakistan and South Africa will be very exciting, as everyone will support Pakistan due to their status as the host team.
Speaking in the mixed media zone after securing a spot in the Tri-Nation Series final, Conway said, "Pakistan is a very good team, and I think we will face Pakistan in the final of the Tri-Nation Series."
He added, "All the players in our team are in good form, and it feels great when you're performing well."
Conway explained their strategy, saying, "We planned to play slowly in the beginning to save the wicket, then build good partnerships in the middle to make things easier. There was no need to take any big risks."
Regarding his teammate Kane Williamson, Conway stated, "I've seen some great innings from Kane Williamson, but this one was really special. Kane has a class of his own when it comes to batting, and it was a great experience to bat with him at the other end."
Conway also shared his feelings about missing out his century, saying, "I'm not disappointed about not completing my century. I believe winning the match is more important."
The left-handed batter, who played a fantastic knock of 97 runs against South Africa in the Tri-Nation Series, mentioned, "With all top-order players in good form, selectors must find it challenging to form the playing XI, and it will be a tough situation for the selectors moving forward."
The third match of the Tri-Nation Series will be played between Pakistan and South Africa, with the winner of the match facing New Zealand in the final on February 14 at National Bank Stadium, Karachi.