I want to be attacking captain like Imran Khan: Babar Azam.

Byline: Mohammad Yaqoob

LAHORE -- Pakistan's newly-appointed One-day International captain Babar Azam on Monday stated that he wants to be an attacking captain like Imran Khan while playing in empty stadiums is nothing new for him since he experienced such conditions for several years when playing at neutral venues of the UAE.

In a video conference held on Monday, Babar - who has been recently elevated as Pakistan's ODI captain - while replying to a question said that two of the country's most successful captains have been Imran Khan and Misbah-ul-Haq and both had different styles. However, when asked which one of the two he would like to emulate as skipper, Babar said: 'I want to be an attacking captain, that is what I have learnt. I will follow Imran Khan's aggressive style as captain.'

It may be mentioned here that while Imran has been a widely celebrated captain of PakAistan, known for his bold leadership, his track record as captain in Test cricket is not extraordinary. He captained Pakistan in 48 Tests, winning 14, losing 8 with 26 ending in draw.

On the other hand, Misbah, despite being considered as a defensive captain, led Pakistan in 56 test, winning 26, losing 19 and playing only 11 draws.

To a question that his quiet personality gives the impression that he is being dominated by head coach-cum-chief selector Misbah, Babar said:'I try to take my own decisions. Yes, if Misbah has any better idea he sends a message to me, but in the ground it is my authority to take decisions.

'As a captain you should be a cool-minded person,' added Babar. 'You may be angry at times with a player (during the match) for poor fielding or anything, but you must not show your emotions or reactions openly because that is not a proper thing to do by a team leader.'

Commenting on Pakistan's upcoming tour of England for three Tests and as many T20s which could be played under special arrangements including empty stadiums due to the Covid-19 pandemic, Babar said: 'Cricket without spectators is nothing new for Pakistan team as we have lot of experience in playing in such conditions at the neutral venues of Abu Dhabi and Dubai in the UAE where most of the time stadiums were empty.

'But I think it will be a challenge for the other countries as it will be the first time for them to play in empty stadiums,' said Babar.

'Overall, I have this fear that cricket without spectators may lose its charm and the transformation of the game into next generation will be...