‘Babar Azam should be rested’

Pakistan’s top-order batter, Babar Azam, scored just 13 runs across both innings.

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Pakistan thrashed West Indies by 127 runs to take a 1-0 lead in the ongoing two-match Test series, thanks to exceptional bowling by the spinners, with Sajid Khan claiming a five-wicket haul.

Despite Pakistan’s 127-run victory in the opening match, Pakistan’s top-order batter Babar Azam scored only 13 runs across both innings.

Former cricketer Basit Ali has recommended that the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) consider resting Babar Azam for the second Test against the West Indies in Multan, following his below-par performance in the opening Test.

The second Test against the West Indies is scheduled to take place in Multan from January 25-29.

 

 

 

 

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Speaking on his YouTube channel, the former batter Basit Ali has expressed concerns about the potential impact on Babar’s confidence, suggesting that this might be an ideal opportunity to give him a break.

Hr further said that Pakistan's chances of qualifying for the World Test Championship final were slim, and therefore, resting Babar could help preserve his form for future challenges.

"If you want to keep him in the Playing XI, prepare better pitches," Basit Ali added, suggesting that the current pitch conditions were not ideal for Babar’s style of play.

He further stressed that the focus should be on the batter's well-being, especially given the importance of maintaining his confidence.

Basit Ali also recommended that wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan be rested ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, highlighting the potential risks of playing on similar pitches as the first Test, which could affect the confidence of both players.

Babar Azam had a difficult period last year, being dropped for the second and third Tests against England and missing the white-ball series against Zimbabwe.

However, he made a strong comeback during Pakistan’s recent tour of South Africa.