Pakistan’s star batsman, Babar Azam, is set to be dropped from the playing XI for the second Test against England, starting on October 15. This surprising decision comes just two days after Pakistan’s embarrassing innings defeat in the first Test. The decision was recommended by the newly formed selection committee, who met in Lahore to discuss the team’s performance and future strategies.
The form of Babar Azam has been a cause for concern in recent times. His inability to convert starts into substantial scores has led to mounting pressure on him. In the first Test against England, he scored only 35 runs across two innings, extending his drought of half-centuries in Test cricket to 18 innings. This is a significant statistic, as only four specialist batters in Pakistan’s history have gone more successive innings without a score over 50.
Also Read: Team India made these 5 big records with the win in IND vs BAN 3rd T20
Since the start of 2023, Babar’s average in Test cricket has been under 21 in 9 matches. This is a far cry from the standards he has set for himself and the expectations of the fans. Despite public support from Pakistan captain Shan Masood and Test coach Jason Gillespie, the selection panel felt that a break from the national team would be beneficial for Babar to regain his form.
🚨 BREAKING 🚨
BABAR AZAM DROPPED FROM THE PAKISTAN TEST TEAM…!!!!! pic.twitter.com/GfPfxw3Q28
— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) October 13, 2024
The newly configured selection committee, comprising Aaqib Javed, Asad Shafiq, Azhar Ali, former ICC umpire Aleem Dar, analyst Hassan Cheema, and the captain and head coach of the format for which the squad is being selected, unanimously agreed to drop Babar Azam. The decision was made after careful consideration of his recent performances and the team’s overall needs.
It’s important to note that neither Shan Masood nor Jason Gillespie were part of the selection committee meeting on Friday. However, the selectors met with the captain, coach, and PCB curator Tony Hemming on Saturday to discuss the situation. While some mentors were in favor of keeping Babar in the squad, the majority opinion was in favor of dropping him.
Babar Azam’s absence from the second Test will undoubtedly have a significant impact on Pakistan’s batting lineup. He is one of the world’s best batsmen and his contributions are invaluable to the team. However, the selection committee believes that this decision is in the best interests of both Babar and the team.
The hope is that a break from the pressure of international cricket will allow Babar to regain his confidence and rediscover his form. It’s a bold move by the selection committee, but it could potentially pay off in the long run.
With Babar Azam out of the picture, Pakistan will need to rely on other batsmen to step up and deliver the goods. The likes of Abdullah Shafique, Shan Masood, and Imam-ul-Haq will be expected to shoulder the responsibility of scoring runs.
The second Test against England presents a crucial opportunity for Pakistan to bounce back from their disappointing defeat in the first match. It will be interesting to see how the team performs without their star batsman.
Related posts:
