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Mohammad Hafeez has reignited the debate surrounding Azam Khan’s fitness.© AFP
Former Pakistan captain Mohammad Hafeez has reignited the debate surrounding Azam Khan’s fitness, amidst the wicketkeeper-batter’s struggling performance in the ongoing T20 World Cup. Azam has faced criticism for his fitness and form, with the young player failing to prove his worth in the team for the tournament. In a recent interview on PTV Sports, Hafeez shared an interesting incident regarding Azam’s fitness routine. Hafeez disclosed that during his tenure as Pakistan’s Director of Cricket, Azam was given a six-week fitness plan.
However, Hafeez observed no improvement in the player, and noted a decrease in his stamina.
“When Azam Khan joins a training program, he remains the same weight after 6 weeks. His body fat levels remain unchanged. The entire Pakistan team can cover two kilometers in 10 minutes, while Azam Khan would take 20 minutes to complete the distance,” Hafeez stated on PTV Sports.
Hafeez also raised concerns about Azam’s commitment and dedication while representing Pakistan, emphasizing that he has already been given ample time to work on his fitness.
“Weight is not the issue for me, but you must adapt to the requirements of the game. Your fitness level must meet the necessary standards. We provided him with a fitness plan, but he [Azam] failed to show improvement. You are in the team due to your talent, but you must also deliver in terms of fitness. He is the only player in the team for whom we compromised on fitness grounds,” he added.
Azam has faced severe criticism from former players. He was omitted from the team for the matches against India and Canada.
In 13 T20I matches, Azam Khan holds an average of 8.80 with a strike rate of 133.33, with his highest score being 30 not out.
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