Shan Masood defends Babar Azam after Bangladesh series loss

Shan stresses the importance of consistency in selection as Babar Azam faces criticism after the Test series.

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Pakistan red-ball captain, Shan Masood, has come to the defense of Babar Azam following the former skipper's disappointing performance in the recent Test series against Bangladesh.

Babar struggled with the bat, managing only 64 runs across four innings at an average of just 16.

This poor run of form coincided with Pakistan's historic 0-2 series defeat, marking the first time they lost a Test series to Bangladesh.

Babar's lackluster performance drew heavy criticism from both fans and cricket experts.

However, Shan emphasized the need for patience and consistency in player selection, particularly in the red-ball format.

“We will have to work on bringing in consistency in selection. You will have to bear with player’s failures. It’s not just about Babar Azam, the more consistently you give a chance to someone, the better he will perform," Shan said in the post-match presser.

Shan highlighted the challenges of finding players who are in form and ready for automatic selection, especially given Pakistan's current lack of regular red-ball cricket.

You will have to search where you will get that player who can be an automatic selection on current form.

Since, we’re not playing red ball cricket currently, we don’t have many options to pick from.

We played the same team which we took to Australia and was successful for Pakistan domestically and at international level," he further added.

Pakistan's recent home Test record has been dismal, with the team having unable to secure victory in their last 10 matches.

Their next challenge will be a three-match Test series against England in October, a tough assignment as they seek to regain form.