In a surprising turn of events, Babar Azam, the former captain, found himself dropped from Pakistan’s Test squad following the first game against England in Multan. This decision came after Babar’s visible struggle with the bat in Test cricket, prompting the new selectors to opt for a fresh face. They chose Kamran Ghulam, who not only debuted but also celebrated his initiation with a century, significantly contributing to Pakistan’s 152-run victory in that match.
Pakistan Captain Shan Masood Gives A Stern Verdict On Babar Azam’s Test Cricket Future:
Ghulam Shines, Pakistan Triumphs
With Babar sidelined, Kamran Ghulam’s entry into the team didn’t just mark a change; it signaled a renaissance for Pakistan’s batting line-up. Ghulam’s performance was pivotal as Pakistan clinched the Test series against England with a 2-1 victory, marking their first series win against England since 2015. This triumph underscored a rejuvenation in the team, raising questions about Babar’s indispensable status in Test cricket.
Doubts Over Babar’s Test Cricket Future
The spotlight on Babar’s future in the red-ball format grew intense following Ghulam’s success. While his Test performances had been underwhelming recently, Babar’s consistent high rankings and past records speak volumes of his capability. However, the selectors’ decision and Ghulam’s debut performance have cast a shadow over Babar’s immediate Test career prospects.
Masood on Babar: A Need for Break?
Speaking on the matter, Pakistan’s red-ball captain Shan Masood offered a perspective that balanced respect for Babar’s skill with an acknowledgment of his recent form. “I think he’s one of the best batsmen in the world. I’m nobody to [say he doesn’t have] a future,” Masood emphasized during an interview on the BBC Stumped radio programme. He continued, highlighting that even the best sometimes need a break. “He has every quality to be one of the greatest batsmen in Test cricket. He’s always there or thereabouts in the rankings. Sometimes, people need a break,” Masood concluded, suggesting that perhaps this time away from Test cricket might rejuvenate Babar.
Looking Forward: A New Era for Pakistan Test Cricket?
The decision to bench Babar and the subsequent success of Kamran Ghulam could herald a new era for Pakistan’s Test team. While Babar remains a formidable player, the team’s performance without him might prompt a broader review of team dynamics and reliance on individual players. This shift might not only benefit the team but could also provide Babar with the much-needed space to reassess and come back stronger. The cricketing world watches with bated breath to see how this plays out, especially as Pakistan gears up for future challenges in the Test arena.
