ISLAMABAD: Once hailed as Pakistan’s most prolific batsman and a rare talent who topped the ICC rankings across all three formats, Babar Azam is now battling a prolonged slump in form.
It has been nearly 43 months since his last international century, and his ongoing struggles at the crease have drawn criticism from fans and pundits alike, according to Cricket Pakistan.
Nicknamed ‘King Babar’ by supporters up until 2023 for his fearless batting, elegant stroke play, and record-breaking feats, the right-hander now appears a shadow of his former self.
Over the past year and a half, his decline has not only cost him his place among cricket’s elite but has also eroded the trust of selectors and cricket administrators.
For the first time since his international debut in 2015, Babar was dropped due to poor form, missing out on the recent T20 series in New Zealand.
While numerous former players have criticised his dip in form, a few have offered constructive advice, urging him to work on his technique and mental focus.
Setting aside ego
Legendary former captain Zaheer Abbas, revered as the ‘Asian Bradman’ for his run-scoring prowess, stated in an interview that Babar must set aside his ego and seek guidance from his seniors.
“It seems to me that Babar either has an ego problem or is too reserved to ask for help from those with experience,” said Zaheer.
“I recall when Azharuddin was struggling during India’s tour of Pakistan in 1989-90. He approached me, I suggested a change in his grip, and it significantly improved his game.”
Zaheer noted a technical flaw in Babar’s current stance, pointing out that it is more closed compared to his previously open setup, leaving him with less time to adjust to the ball’s pace.
“Lately, Babar has been playing his shots too hastily, which indicates he is struggling for time at the crease,” he observed.
Another former Pakistan captain, Rashid Latif, offered a broader view, highlighting the lack of proper mentoring within the team environment.
Handling pressure
“When under pressure, a player must find a way to dig himself out—but Babar hasn’t managed that,” said Latif, widely regarded as one of Pakistan’s sharpest cricketing minds.
“There’s no proper batting coach or mentor in the dressing room to support him. He must adapt and evolve on his own.”
Former Test cricketer Shoaib Mohammad, son of the legendary Hanif Mohammad, provided further insight into Babar’s plight.
“Opposition teams seem to have decoded Babar’s strengths—his trademark cover drive, the pull shot, and even his vulnerability to spin,” said Shoaib.
“That’s made things difficult for him. I sense frustration in his approach, especially when boundaries are hard to come by. In such situations, he should focus on rotating the strike, taking singles and twos, and spend time settling in at the crease.”
Shoaib also touched on the psychological burden Babar appears to carry.
“Recently, he told some fans not to call him ‘king’. It shows he’s feeling the weight of that title, yet still does not want to let his supporters down. That internal conflict seems to be taking a toll. Perhaps a cricket psychologist could help him navigate this tough phase.”
