Since his Test debut against Bangladesh in 2016, Babar Azam has been a name synonymous with elegance and consistency in cricket. Here’s a detailed look at how his Test cricket average has evolved year by year, reflecting his growth from a promising talent to one of Pakistan’s cricketing pillars.
2016: The Dawn of a Legend Initial forays of Babar Azam into Test cricket were marked by cautious optimism. His debut year saw him amassing runs at an average of 50.61, with three centuries, setting a high benchmark for what was to come. His technique, especially against spin, was already evident, showcasing a maturity beyond his years.
2017: A Dip in Form The year 2017 was less kind, with Babar’s average dropping to 42.66. Despite scoring four centuries, the year was a reminder of the challenges in Test cricket, where conditions and opposition can significantly affect performance. This period was crucial for Babar, teaching him resilience and adaptation.
2018: Consistency Amidst Challenges By 2018, Babar’s average climbed back to 49.64, with two centuries. This year was marked by Pakistan’s tours to Ireland, England, and South Africa, showcasing Babar’s ability to perform under varied conditions. His performance here was not just about numbers but also about proving his mettle on challenging pitches.
2019: A Leap in Excellence 2019 was a year of significant improvement for Babar, averaging 57.83 with six centuries. This period included home Tests and tours to South Africa and Australia, where he not only scored runs but did so with flair, establishing himself as a top-order batsman of international repute.
2020-2023: The Captain’s Bat Entering the 2020s, Babar’s role evolved with captaincy responsibilities. His average fluctuated, reflecting the pressures of leadership and the varied nature of Test cricket. However, his performances against Australia and England, especially in 2020, where he averaged over 60, highlighted his growth as a leader and batsman.
Recent Trends and the 2024 Insight Recent posts on X (formerly Twitter) and cricket analyses suggest a mixed bag for Babar in the last year. While his overall Test average has seen fluctuations, his performance in 2023 was notably lower, averaging around 22.66, a stark contrast to his previous year’s 69.64. This dip could be attributed to various factors, including the pressure of captaincy, the nature of opposition, and perhaps, a slight dip in form. However, his preparation for the Test against Bangladesh in 2024, where he was seen warming up with stunning cover drives, indicates a return to form, aiming to push his average back up.
Babar Azam’s journey through Test cricket has been a tale of resilience, growth, and adaptation. From a promising debut to facing the ebbs and flows of form, his year-wise average tells a story of a cricketer who has not only met but often exceeded expectations. As he approaches the landmark of 4000 Test runs, Babar’s career continues to be a fascinating study in cricketing excellence, with each year adding layers to his legacy.
