Former Pakistan cricketer Zaheer Abbas has suggested that Babar Azam, the prominent batter, should put aside his ego and approach senior players for advice in order to restore his form. After a prolific run in his first eight years in international cricket, the 30-year-old hasn’t been able to dominate bowling attacks in the last few years.
Babar hasn’t scored a century in nearly two years, with his last three-figure knock coming against Nepal in the 2023 Asia Cup. While his T20I performances have remained steady, his ODI numbers have noticeably dropped. In 2025, his batting average in eight ODIs is under 35, significantly dropping from his overall average of 55.17. His Test form has also been concerning, with an average in the 20s across 13 matches since 2023.
“I get the sense that he either has an ego problem or is too shy to ask his senior players for advice to help him through his current slump. I clearly remember how former Indian batter Azharuddin came to me for guidance during India’s tour to Pakistan in 1989-90. He was struggling to score runs, and I suggested he adjust his batting grip. The change helped him regain his form,” he said.
“I’ve observed that Babar’s dismissals have been a result of him rushing into his shots, which clearly indicates he’s struggling to find the time to settle in the middle.”
His form has impacted the team. Pakistan has been unable to advance past the first round in the last three ICC white-ball tournaments. Pakistan finished last in the 2023-25 World Test Championship (WTC) standings.
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