Pakistan skipper Babar Azam is optimistic to do well in the all-important semi-final against Kangaroos of Australia by retaining the same sporting spirit.

Addressing a virtual press conference, Babar said that “You can’t take any team lightly in T20Is. You got to play competitive cricket, on the day.”

On a question regarding the unimpressive performance of Hassan Ali in the event so far Babar said: “I don’t think so that the question makes sense, though I would reply. He added, as a captain I can’t imagine, making Hassan Ali sitting on the bench."

Hassan is my match-winner and has done so many good performances for the team in the recent past; he made us win tournaments, said Babar.

“Look, up and down is the part of the game, said Babar, added that, in a difficult time, you’ve got to back your players. In this regard not only me, but the entire team is backing Hasan.”

Babar said Hasan is strong enough to make a comeback.

“As a captain, what I believe is that Hasan is the player meant for the big match. I am optimistic that he would perform well in the Semi-final as well as hopefully in the final.”

Meanwhile, one of the journalists dropped a question for Babar on Fakhar Zaman’s performance.

Babar said that all the eleven players cannot click in one single match. “In this format of the game, two batsmen got to perform well, while other two have to score 40 odd runs, each to set the tone for the match as a teamwork.”  

Babar said that Fakhar has given confidence and on the day, he can change the pose of the match. The way Fakhar plays can do anything on his day, I have full confidence in him, Babar Azam added.