Former West Indian captain and Quetta Gladiators mentor Sir Viv Richards has expressed confidence in Pakistan's ability to rebuild a strong cricket team, praising the talent within the country and backing star batter Babar Azam to regain his form soon.

In an exclusive interview with Cricket Pakistan, Richards shared his thoughts on the recent poor performances of the national side and the struggles of some of its key players.

"Bad times come to everyone. I am confident that Pakistan will once again become a good team," said Richards. "Babar Azam will soon regain his form. A king is one who rules over all," he added.

Addressing the team's recent underwhelming performances, Richards said, "This is something the players and the management need to answer. Pakistan has always had top-quality cricketers who have inspired the team. I believe the talent here deserves justice."

Speaking about Babar's form, Richards was supportive: "No matter how good a batter you are, everyone goes through a rough patch. This is not the first time he's facing such a phase. Babar is a very good player. I am sure he will get back to form very soon."

When asked about being referred to as "King Richards" in his playing days, and the similar titles now being used for India's Virat Kohli and Pakistan's Babar Azam, he responded with admiration.

"A king is one who rules over all. I believe when you watch players like Kohli and Babar, they appear to do justice to the game of cricket," Richards said.

"I hope both of them, and other young players, continue to play in this way," he concluded.

He also praised Pakistan's cricketing heritage and potential: "I have always felt that Pakistan has been gifted with great cricketers and immense talent. All we can hope is that with time, this talent continues to shine," he added

The Quetta Gladiators mentor also lauded Sarfaraz Ahmed for his strong leadership qualities, describing the former Pakistan skipper as a captain who always led with heart and passion.

In an exclusive interview with Cricket Pakistan, Richards reflected on Sarfaraz's time as captain and acknowledged his contributions to Pakistan cricket.

"Sarfaraz Ahmed has always been a strong captain. He led from the heart," said Richards.

"Players who served Pakistan with such dedication for years will surely be remembered on the field," he added.

Looking to the future, Richards expressed hope that Pakistan would continue to produce players who embody the same fighting spirit.

"As we move forward, I hope we continue to find players who carry Sarfaraz's kind of passion," he further added. In response to a question about Quetta Gladiators captain Saud Shakeel, he said: "Saud Shakeel is still a young captain and is currently learning."

Richards was asked about the possibility of restoring bilateral cricket between the two neighbouring countries. He responded by highlighting the unifying power of sport.

"There are many issues in the world. Sports bring people closer," said Richards.

"I hope that in the future, steps will be taken that help build a better world," he added. Richards' remarks come at a time when India and Pakistan have not played a bilateral series in over a decade due to ongoing political tensions.