Younis Khan names his successor in Pakistan cricket

Former Pakistan captain Younis Khan has named top order batsman Babar Azam as his successor in Pakistan cricket, as the team prepares for a much anticipated Test encounter against England.

“I think Babar will be [the next Younis]," said Younis Khan, quoted Omnisport. "I think he's extremely stylish and he has the potential. If he plays, and he works on his fitness, then I think he will perform a lot for Pakistan," he added.

Further praising Babar, Younis said that the youngster's success is not only restricted to limited overs cricket, as ‘he performs everywhere.’

The retired batsman, hailed as the most successful Test batsman for Pakistan with over 10,000 runs in the game’s purest form, was optimistic that the relatively young Pakistan side would be able to handle the conditions offered in England.

"They will handle it. People have a lot of concerns about this [struggling to cope with the pressure] but I think they will be okay," he said. "So, I think they will be able to handle these kinds of conditions and I think Pakistan is in a good shape as well, so I think this will be a nice series," added Younis.

When asked who he expects to stand out in the Tests against England, Younis saidm "I think Azhar Ali is in good form, I think Asad [Shafiq] needs some back-up and he should lift his game as well." He added, "So, I think these two and Sarfraz [Ahmed] - he is a good leader. I think they will be able to handle this pressure".

Pakistan will be facing England for the two Test series, with the first Test match scheduled at the historic Lord’s on May 24.