Babar Azam Responds to Critics after Qualifying for Final

The skipper scored 53 runs off 42 balls against New Zealand

SYDNEY: Pakistan skipper Babar Azam has responded to the critics after leading the Men in Green to the final of the T20 World Cup 2022.

Babar and Mohammad Rizwan put on a sensational first-wicket partnership to help Pakistan beat New Zealand by seven wickets at the Sydney Cricket Ground on Wednesday.

The Kiwis posted a modest 152 runs, thanks to a crucial half-century from Daryl Mitchell and a 46-run knock from skipper Kane Williamson.

In pursuit of a decent total, the Pakistan skipper scored 53 runs off 42 balls, while the wicketkeeper-batter amassed 57 runs off 43 balls to help the green shirts beat the Black Caps.

"The critics should rejoice because the Pakistan team has reached the final. The criticism should be of the team's performance. You can criticise, but don't be personal when you do so," Babar said during a post-match press conference.

The batter said that it's hard to say which team will make it to the final, but he assured that the green shirts will give their 100 per cent to win the World Cup, irrespective of the opponent.

When asked about his dismal performance in the Super 12s of the event, he said: "Yes, I couldn't score runs, but the performance in the semi-final [against New Zealand] reduced the pressure. I tried to give 100% in every match, but there were some mistakes. There are ups and downs in cricket."

The Men in Green will either face England or India in the grand finale of the T20 World Cup at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on Sunday, October 13.