Babar Azam’s ‘great fall’ in ICC events linked to this great cause of Greater Pakistan

Former Pakistan captain Mohammad Hafeez has called out batsman Babar Azam for failing to improve his game during ICC events. Hafeez’s comment comes after Babar failed to help Pakistan qualify for the Super 8 stage of the T20 World Cup. Although Babar saw Pakistan at home in the final group match against Ireland, fans and experts questioned his approach during the match. Chasing 107 to win, Pakistan continued to lose wickets at the other end. However, Babar hit a cautious 32 not out from 34 balls to salvage some pride for Pakistan.

Hafeez expressed his concern over Babar’s form in ICC events and questioned whether the same was due to the burden of captaincy.

“I feel sorry for Babar Azam. For a quality player like him, having a big drop during ICC events is a big concern. And only Babar Azam can answer that. Is it because of his captaincy?”, asked Hafeez while spoke in PTV Sports.

Hafeez suggested that only Babar can explain the reason for his difficulties in performing at ICC events.

“I want him to be top-ranked for Pakistan and he has that ability. But when it comes to bilateral series, Babar is at the top but in the ICC event he is way below. So this big dip in form is a cause for concern and only Babar or perhaps someone else can respond,” he added.

“The knock was really good against Ireland. Wickets were falling at the other end and as a senior professional, it’s your responsibility to stay till the end and close out the game,” Hafeez explained.

Fans and analysts criticized the Pakistani national team management for not choosing the right players for the World Cup.

The 2024 edition marked a dramatic drop for Pakistan from the last World Cup two years ago, when they reached the final.

Pakistan will host next year’s Champions Trophy and there are calls for a major shake-up in the team and management.

(With AFP inputs)