Image Source : Getty
Despite his immense talent and reputation, Babar Azam is currently experiencing a challenging period in Test cricket. He has not scored a fifty-plus score in almost two years, with his last half-century dating back to December 2022. This prolonged lean run has raised concerns about his performance in the longer format. In recent matches, including Pakistan’s series against Bangladesh, Babar has struggled to make an impact, failing to convert starts into significant scores. His inability to contribute meaningfully has drawn attention, particularly as he was once known for his consistency across formats.
Babar’s struggles have become a focal point of discussions surrounding Pakistan’s Test team. His batting, once a reliable cornerstone for Pakistan, has seen a sharp decline, with several dismissals coming early in his innings. He has accumulated only a few modest scores in 2023, far from the dominant performances that once saw him ranked among the best in the world. This slump is particularly notable given that Babar was among the top run-scorers in Tests not long ago, boasting an average above 50 before his form deteriorated.
Adding to the pressure, Babar’s role as a former captain and a leading figure in Pakistan cricket means his underperformance has a larger impact on the team’s overall morale and competitiveness. Pakistan has often relied on Babar’s batting to anchor the side, but his continued struggles in Tests have left a void. Fans and analysts alike have expressed their concern, and some have called for changes to help him regain his form.
Babar’s Test struggles also come at a time when other formats have not been as problematic for him. He continues to perform well in white-ball cricket, particularly in One-Day Internationals, where he remains a top-ranked batter. However, the disparity in his form across formats has been a topic of debate. While his prowess in ODIs and T20Is is unquestionable, the dry spell in Test cricket has overshadowed his overall contributions in recent times.
The root of Babar’s Test woes might lie in technical adjustments or perhaps mental fatigue. With a busy cricketing calendar and the demands of leadership, balancing expectations has been tough. His supporters argue that every great player goes through such phases, and that Babar has the ability to bounce back stronger.
In conclusion, Babar Azam is undoubtedly one of the finest batters Pakistan has produced, but his current form in Test cricket is a cause for concern. With nearly two years without a significant score in the format, the cricketing world is watching closely to see how he will respond. For Babar, rediscovering his rhythm in red-ball cricket is crucial, not only for his own legacy but also for Pakistan’s aspirations in future Test series.