Azam Khan has been pushed to concentrate on enhancing his fitness and agility to become a more reliable player by Islamabad United's head coach and former Pakistan cricketer, Azhar Mahmood, who recognizes his ability.

Despite turning up good performances in the just-finished eighth season of the Pakistan Super League (PSL), Azam has come under fire for his inconsistent form and level of fitness.

The head coach of Islamabad United has stated his desire for Azam Khan to get more agility and fitness. Azam is a fantastic player, however, Azhar Mahmood underlined that he has to improve his fitness.

He plays cricket quite well. He is a fantastic cricket ball striker when he is playing well, but he knows that he has to improve his fitness. We had a chat with him about how as a coach I would like to see him fitter and more nimble, and he is extremely eager to work on his fitness.

While playing franchise cricket, Azhar said that Azam was free to take his own route. However, he did clarify that Azam is now concentrating on enhancing his fitness since he is aware of the value it brings to the international stage.

Azam has not been picked for the forthcoming limited-overs series against New Zealand, which is when Azhar made his remarks. However, if he increases his fitness, the head selector has not ruled out his return to the team.