In a significant move aimed at strengthening cricketing ties and enhancing the skills of cricketers, Australian coach Shannon Young has announced plans to bring high-performance Australian cricketers to Pakistan. Speaking in Lahore, Young emphasized the immense talent of Pakistan’s cricket captain Babar Azam and expressed his admiration for the cricketing culture in Pakistan.
Praise for Babar Azam
Shannon Young, while talking about his experiences in Pakistan, praised Babar Azam as a world-class player who often faces more criticism than support. “Babar gets less support and more criticism,” Young remarked. He highlighted that if a player like Babar was in Australia, he would be celebrated and supported extensively. Young’s comments underline the need for greater appreciation and backing for talented players in Pakistan.
Visit to Karachi and Lahore
Young shared his recent experiences in Pakistan, mentioning his stay in Karachi for four days followed by another four days in Lahore. These visits were part of his plan to explore cricketing infrastructure and opportunities in Pakistan. He noted that his primary objective is to bring high-performance Australian cricketers to Pakistan and facilitate mutual learning and development.
Upcoming Tour Plans
Shannon Young revealed plans to bring young Australian cricketers to Pakistan in April next year. This initiative is aimed at providing these cricketers with exposure to different playing conditions and styles, thereby enhancing their overall skills. “I have toured India many times with cricketers in the past. I always wanted to come to Pakistan, and now I get my chance,” Young said, expressing his excitement about the upcoming tours.
Interest in Power Hitting Coaching
Young also spoke about the growing importance of power hitting in modern-day cricket, especially in T20 formats. He mentioned his interest in focusing on power hitting coaching during his time in Pakistan. This focus aligns with the evolving dynamics of cricket where aggressive batting and power hitting have become crucial elements for success in shorter formats.
Meetings with Pakistani Captains
During his visit to Lahore, Shannon Young had the opportunity to meet with key figures in Pakistani cricket, including Azhar Ali and Babar Azam. He praised Azhar Ali for establishing a remarkable cricket academy and reiterated his admiration for Babar Azam’s skills and potential. “If a player like Babar was still in Australia, we would not be supporting him by criticizing him,” Young stated, highlighting the need for constructive support for players.
Positive Outlook on Pakistan-Australia Cricket Relations
Young expressed his optimism about fostering stronger cricketing ties between Pakistan and Australia. He mentioned that Australian cricketers have a favorable view of Pakistan and are looking forward to future tours. This positive outlook is expected to pave the way for more frequent exchanges and collaborative efforts between the two cricketing nations.
Reflecting on Pakistani Expectations
Shannon Young acknowledged that the high expectations from Pakistani fans and cricket enthusiasts might contribute to the criticism faced by players like Babar Azam. “Perhaps the expectations of the Pakistani people are also very high,” he said. Young’s comments suggest a balanced approach where high expectations are coupled with unwavering support and encouragement for players.
Shannon Young’s announcement and his remarks highlight a significant step towards enhancing cricketing relations and skills development between Australia and Pakistan. By bringing high-performance Australian cricketers to Pakistan and focusing on modern coaching techniques like power hitting, Young aims to contribute positively to the growth of cricket in both countries. His admiration for Babar Azam and his call for greater support for talented players resonate with the broader need for a supportive and appreciative cricketing environment. As plans unfold, this initiative promises to strengthen ties and foster a culture of mutual respect and development in the world of cricket.
