Pak vs Aus: Babar Azam-Shan Masood camaraderie good for Pakistan, says Sarfaraz Ahmed

CANBERRA: Sarfaraz Ahmed Monday attempted to dispel any misconceptions among the senior players after the change of roles, saying Babar Azam is taking a keen interest in the team and his camaraderie with skipper Shan Masood is a good thing.

Pakistan are currently in Canberra to play a 4-day game against the Australian PM XI ahead of their three-match Test series against the Aussies.

The former captain said this when asked about the chemistry between the senior players and the new captain.

"Shan Masood is taking along all the players very well and he has a good bonding with Mohammad Hafeez. Babar's role has also been very good as I observed in the camp. He is very involved in the team and he helps the skipper in making plans for the team."

He also termed it a good sign that a former captain is assisting his successor in team building.

On a question regarding his personal goal, Sarfaraz Ahmed said that everyone has an individual goal but, when they left Pakistan, the team's intent was to play good cricket here.

"Our target is to win the series while the individual goal is to give the best in batting and keeping whatever the opportunity is given. When you play cricket, you are prepared for whatever role is given to you. Rizwan and I will try to fulfil whatever role is given to us."

The right-handed batter termed the opponent a "top quality side" and vowed to play their best against them.

"Australia is always tough at home. Will try to give them a tough time. Our team is very good and will play good cricket."

About David Warner who is playing his last series, the former Pakistan captain sent his best wishes to the cricketer.

"We will try to get him out as soon as we can, we will try not to let him get off to a good start."

About Naseem Shah, who has just completed his rehab, Sarfaraz said Pakistan's fast bowlers are good and they can make up for the lack of a 20-year-old.

He also praised the quality bowlers in Pakistan's lineup. 

"Shaheen and Hasan are exceptional, and we have the likes of Mir Hamza, Khurram Shehzad, and Faheem [Ashraf], who have proven their mettle in domestic competitions."