Babar Azam’s return to domestic first-class cricket ended in disappointment as he scored just 4 runs in the second innings against KRL, raising concerns over his ongoing batting slump.
Babar Azam’s highly anticipated return to domestic first-class cricket concluded in disappointment on Sunday, as the star Pakistan batter was dismissed for a mere 4 runs in the second innings against Khan Research Laboratories (KRL). Playing for OGDCL in the third round of the President’s Trophy Grade-I, Babar’s hopes of regaining his red-ball form evaporated after just 14 deliveries at the Abbottabad Cricket Stadium.
In his first innings, Babar managed only 12 runs off 20 balls, marking a double failure that has intensified concerns regarding his ongoing slump in red-ball cricket. His recent performance has raised questions about his technical proficiency and match readiness as he prepares for upcoming international Test assignments.
During his brief second innings, Babar appeared tentative from the outset, struggling to find his timing against a disciplined KRL pace attack that took advantage of the morning bounce. After managing only 4 singles, he poked at a delivery outside off stump, resulting in a straightforward catch to the infield.
With this dismissal, Babar’s aggregate for the match stood at just 16 runs, following his first-innings score. The atmosphere at the Abbottabad Cricket Stadium shifted dramatically after his wicket fell. Local fans had gathered in large numbers over the past three days, many of whom had come specifically to witness Babar’s return to red-ball cricket after a seven-year absence.
As the former Pakistan captain walked back to the pavilion with his head down, a palpable sense of disappointment swept through the crowd. Reports indicated that numerous spectators began leaving the stadium immediately after his dismissal, unable to bear watching the remainder of the match.
This domestic outing was intended by the team management to serve as a confidence booster for Babar ahead of the forthcoming international Test season. However, with scores of 12 and 4 on what was considered a decent batting surface against domestic bowlers, his technical vulnerabilities and lack of match sharpness remain apparent.
Babar’s double failure in Abbottabad is likely to heighten the scrutiny on both him and the national selection committee as Pakistan gears up for its next red-ball challenge. The pressure is mounting as Babar has not scored an international Test century in over 70 innings, further complicating his situation as he seeks to regain his form.
As the cricketing world watches closely, Babar Azam’s performance in the coming weeks will be critical for both his career and the future of Pakistan’s Test team.
According to The Sunday Guardian, Babar’s struggles in the domestic arena have only amplified the challenges he faces as he aims to return to form.