Babar Azam's T20 World Cup future is hanging in the balance after a disappointing performance against the Netherlands. This raises the question: Is Babar Azam's superstar status truly deserved in the T20 format?
The former Pakistan captain's recent form has come under intense scrutiny, with critics questioning his place in the team. In the T20 World Cup match against the Netherlands, Babar's shot selection left much to be desired, almost costing Pakistan the game. With Faheem Ashraf's heroics saving the day, Babar's slow start and lack of impact became a focal point of discussion.
Former Pakistan batter Basit Ali didn't hold back, criticizing Babar's performance and suggesting he might be dropped for the next match. Ali believes that coach Mike Hesson's displeasure could lead to Babar's exclusion, a bold statement that has sparked controversy.
"I sense Babar won't play in the next game. The anger on Hesson's face... I doubt he'll play Babar at No. 4 again." - Basit Ali
Babar's dismissal against the Netherlands was a key moment. Attempting an ambitious shot, he ended up holing out to long-off. The delivery, nicely tossed up, tempted Babar to dance down the track, but he was undone in the air, skewing a mistimed lofted drive. A simple catch for the fielder in the deep.
"Kahan se superstar hai?" (Where is the superstar?) - Basit Ali
Ali argues that Babar's T20 credentials are questionable, stating that he's far from being a superstar in this format. His recent struggles in the Big Bash League (BBL) before the World Cup support this claim. In a match against Sydney Thunder, Babar was denied a single off the final ball of an over by Steve Smith, a controversial moment that sparked anger in Babar.
"If you call Babar Azam a superstar in ODIs or Tests, I might agree. But in T20Is? Kahaan se superstar hai? A batter who drops down to bat at No. 4 and can't even communicate his discomfort with the position! Doesn't Babar know better?" - Basit Ali
Ali goes on to name several players who, in his opinion, are better T20 performers than Babar, including Shadab Khan, Usman Khan, and Mohammad Nawaz. He even suggests that club cricketers could offer better insights into the T20 format than Babar. The criticism is harsh, but it highlights the intense scrutiny Babar is facing.
Before the T20 World Cup, Pakistan captain Salman Agha made it clear that Babar's place in the team was not guaranteed. With his recent form and the team's performance on the line, the pressure is on Babar to prove his worth.
The debate rages on: Is Babar Azam's T20 career in jeopardy? What do you think? Should Babar be given another chance, or is it time for a change? The cricket world awaits your verdict!
