Babar Azam Struggles with Form as Slowest Top-Order Batter in PSL 10

ISLAMABAD: Peshawar Zalmi captain Babar Azam is enduring one of his poorest seasons in the Pakistan Super League (PSL). Much was expected from the star opener, but his displays thus far have left both fans and pundits questioning his approach at the crease.

In last night’s fixture against Multan Sultans, Peshawar Zalmi were chasing a modest target of just 109—a seemingly ideal scenario for Babar to steady the innings and regain his form.

However, he could only manage 8 runs off 13 deliveries before being bowled by Shahid Aziz, a relatively unknown pacer making only his second appearance in the PSL.

The dismissal was indicative of Babar’s overall struggles this season—tentative, under pressure, and unable to settle into his usual rhythm.

Lowest strike rate

What is particularly concerning is that Babar currently has the lowest strike rate among all top-order batters in PSL 10 who have faced at least 100 deliveries.

With 178 runs off 162 balls, his strike rate sits at just 109.87—a notable decline for a player celebrated for his elegance and reliability at the top of the order.

The problem does not lie with Babar alone. His opening partner, Saim Ayub, has also found it difficult to accelerate, recording the second-lowest strike rate (117.82) among batters with a comparable number of balls faced.

This sluggish start from the openers has heaped pressure on the rest of the Zalmi batting line-up and has played a significant role in their erratic performances.

Here is a glance at the batters with the lowest strike rates in PSL 10 so far (minimum 100 balls faced):

Players with the Lowest Strike Rates in PSL 10 (100 Balls Faced)