Pakistan Coach Pressures Babar Azam before T20I Return: “Great Opportunity”
In an exciting development for Pakistan cricket, head coach Mike Hesson has confirmed that Babar Azam will return to T20 International (T20I) cricket. He will take the number three batting position in the upcoming series against South Africa. This marks Babar’s first T20I appearance since December 2024.
Strategic Change in the Lineup
This decision comes as opener Fakhar Zaman takes a temporary break from T20Is to concentrate on domestic cricket. Hesson remarked on the situation during a media event at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium. He expressed strong support for Babar’s selection, emphasizing the potential benefits of bringing the star player back into the squad.
- Player: Babar Azam
- Role: Number three batsman
- Team: Pakistan
- Opponent: South Africa
- Last T20I Match: December 2024
A Bright Opportunity for Babar Azam
Hesson noted, “This creates an opportunity for another top-order player, and it’s a great chance to reintegrate Babar into the squad.” With Fakhar Zaman’s absence, Babar’s return is timely, providing the team with experienced talent.
Babar Azam, now 31, has played 128 T20Is, scoring 4,223 runs at an average of 39.84 and a strike rate of 129.23. His impressive statistics include 36 half-centuries and three centuries. Notably, his highest score of 122 came against South Africa in Centurion back in 2021.
Performance Against South Africa
Historically, Babar has performed well against South Africa in T20 matches. He holds an average of 34.38 from 13 innings versus this opponent, along with his best strike rate of 141.45 against any Test-playing nation.
Babar’s reintroduction to T20Is is viewed as a positive move for Pakistan’s cricket ambitions, especially in light of the upcoming matches against South Africa.
