The Pakistani cricket team is facing significant struggles in their ongoing Test series against Bangladesh, particularly highlighted by the performance of their star batsman, Babar Azam. Following a disappointing loss in the first Test match, the beginning of the second Test has not brought any respite for the team. Once again, they found themselves unable to put up substantial scores, with Babar being a focal point of the team’s batting woes. The second Test commenced on Saturday, August 31, in Rawalpindi, where the Pakistani batsmen once again succumbed to the pressure applied by the Bangladeshi bowlers.
Another Disappointing Performance
After a dismal first Test that resulted in a heavy defeat, the expectations for improvement in the second Test were high but quickly dashed. The first day of the match was entirely washed out due to rain, adding to the concerns of the Pakistani side. When play finally resumed on the second day, it was clear that the team was still grappling with their form. The duo of captain Shan Masood and young opener Saiym Ayub showed promise with their half-centuries, but Babar Azam once again failed to deliver at a crucial juncture.
Babar’s Struggle Continues
Babar Azam had a chance to reclaim his form after managing only 0 and 22 runs in the first Test. This time, he started solidly, managing to stay at the crease for a significant period. After batting for about an hour and a half, it seemed like he was finding his rhythm. However, his innings came to an end when he was dismissed by the renowned Bangladeshi spinner Shakib Al Hasan, who trapped him LBW. Babar ended his innings with just 31 runs off 77 balls, extending his poor run of form to a staggering 615 days without a half-century in Test cricket.
Analysis of Babar’s Performance
It’s easy to see why Babar Azam’s prolonged dry spell is causing concern among fans and analysts alike. His last significant innings came in December 2022 against New Zealand, where he scored a brilliant century. Since then, he has failed to cross the 50-run mark in 15 subsequent innings, and his scores have been alarmingly low, as detailed in the table below:
| Innings | Score |
|---|---|
| 1 | 31 |
| 2 | 22 |
| 3 | 0 |
| 4 | 23 |
| 5 | 26 |
| 6 | 41 |
| 7 | 1 |
| 8 | 14 |
| 9 | 21 |
| 10 | 39 |
| 11 | 24 |
| 12 | 13 |
| 13 | 27 |
| 14 | 24 |
| 15 | 14 |
Impact on the Team
Babar’s inability to score runs has not only impacted his personal statistics but has also taken a toll on the entire Pakistani team’s performance. The players are feeling the pressure of the situation, especially with crucial matches looming ahead. Although Masood and Ayub managed to forge a vital 107-run partnership for the second wicket, the continual loss of wickets has raised concerns about the team’s batting depth and ability to support their captain.
Looking Ahead
As the series progresses, all eyes will be on Babar Azam. The Pakistani team desperately needs their captain to return to form, especially with several challenging fixtures lined up in the near future. With the fans and analysts expecting better performances, this cricketing journey might depend significantly on how Babar handles the mounting pressure and rises to the occasion.
