Former Pakistan all-rounder Rana Naved-ul-Hasan has urged Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan to rethink their place in modern cricket. He said both players must adapt to the high demands of today’s elite cricket. Rana emphasized that ability alone may no longer guarantee success in international and league cricket.
Rana shared lessons from his time in the Big Bash League. He said Australian players focus on performance and results rather than reputation or seniority. He added that selection and respect in Australia depend solely on current impact. This approach, he explained, contrasts sharply with Pakistan’s team culture.
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The former fast bowler highlighted Steve Smith as an example of Australia’s performance-focused mindset. In one match, Smith refused to take a run on Babar Azam’s shot. Rana said this decision showed that players prioritize match situations over personal expectations. He noted that Babar appeared frustrated after his dismissal.
Rana warned that Babar and Rizwan must understand modern cricket’s changing nature. He said adaptability, situational awareness, and quick decision-making are now critical. Players need to perform consistently to remain relevant in leagues and international cricket. He stressed that big names alone do not ensure respect or success today.
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He concluded that Pakistan’s players could learn from the Australian system. Rana encouraged a shift toward merit-based evaluation and impact-driven performance. He said embracing these principles would improve competitiveness and sustain long-term careers. Modern cricket rewards those who adjust and deliver under pressure.