📈 Babar Azam – From Consistent Run Machine to Struggling Batter
Babar Azam has long been Pakistan’s batting backbone, hailed as one of the most consistent run-scorers in world cricket. Known for his elegant stroke play, ability to anchor an innings, and lead run-charts across all formats, Babar enjoyed a golden period between 2019–2022, where he dominated ICC rankings and was compared to modern greats like Virat Kohli, Steve Smith, and Kane Williamson.
However, 2025 has painted a very different picture. Once considered “Mr. Consistent,” Babar’s form slump is now becoming a serious concern for the Pakistan cricket team, especially with major ICC tournaments around the corner.
📊 Statistical Comparison – Previous Peak Years vs Current Form
| Year | Matches (ODI) | Runs | Average | Strike Rate | 100s | 50s |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 12 | 905 | 82.27 | 90.1 | 4 | 5 |
| 2022 | 9 | 679 | 84.87 | 89.4 | 3 | 4 |
| 2023 | 11 | 750 | 68.18 | 91.2 | 2 | 6 |
| 2024 | 14 | 780 | 65.00 | 88.5 | 1 | 7 |
| 2025 | 10 | 372 | 37.20 | 84.3 | 0 | 3 |
📉 Key Observations:
- Average drop: From the 80s in peak years to just 37.20 in 2025.
- Century drought: No ODI hundred in 2025, compared to 4 in 2021.
- Strike rate decline: From over 90 to 84.3, showing slower scoring rates.
- Conversion rate issue: Babar is getting starts but failing to convert into big scores.
🏟 Technical Issues in His Batting
- Early Dismissals: Bowlers are targeting him early with fuller deliveries outside off-stump, exploiting his tendency to drive loosely.
- Struggle Against Spin in Middle Overs: Opposition spinners have tied him down, forcing risky shots.
- Lack of Intent: Compared to his past aggression, Babar now seems overly cautious, which affects the team’s momentum.
- Pressure of Captaincy (Past Impact): Though not currently captain, the mental toll of past leadership responsibilities may still be lingering.
🌍 Impact on Pakistan Cricket Team
Babar’s poor form has hurt Pakistan’s batting stability. In the past, his presence at the crease gave confidence to both the dressing room and fans. Now, early wickets have led to middle-order collapses, resulting in Pakistan losing crucial matches against top sides like Australia, India, and West Indies.
🔍 Comparison with Other Modern Batting Greats
While players like Virat Kohli and Joe Root have bounced back from lean patches with significant comebacks, Babar’s slump has lasted longer than expected. The difference is that Kohli, for example, maintained a decent average during his lean years, whereas Babar’s numbers have dipped drastically in all formats this year.
💡 What Babar Azam Needs to Do to Regain His Form
- Technical Adjustments: Work on off-stump discipline and shot selection.
- Aggressive Mindset: Adopt a more proactive approach to counter attacking bowlers.
- Fitness & Stamina: Maintain peak fitness to perform consistently in back-to-back matches.
- Mental Resilience: Consult batting coaches and sports psychologists to handle pressure.
- Adaptability: Be willing to change batting positions if it benefits the team.
📢 Fan Reactions on Social Media
- "Still my King, but he needs to start converting starts into match-winning knocks again!" 🏏
- "Babar Azam should take a break and work on his game. Too much pressure is showing."
- "We’ve seen Kohli bounce back, I’m sure Babar will too!" 🔥
❓ FAQs About Babar Azam’s Current Form
Q1: Why is Babar Azam struggling in 2025?
A: His struggles are due to technical flaws outside off-stump, cautious batting approach, and pressure situations affecting his confidence.Q2: Has Babar Azam been dropped from the team?
A: No, he remains a key player for Pakistan, but selectors may consider resting him in upcoming matches for mental refreshment.Q3: When was Babar Azam’s last international century?
A: His last international hundred came in late 2024 against New Zealand in an ODI.
Q4: How does Babar’s 2025 form compare to his prime years?
A: His average and strike rate have dropped significantly, with no centuries in 2025 compared to multiple in his peak years.Q5: Can Babar bounce back before the ICC World Cup?
A: Yes, with technical adjustments and mental resilience, he has the talent to return to top form before major tournaments.🏁 Final Thoughts
Babar Azam’s poor performance in 2025 is undeniable, but writing him off would be premature. Cricket’s history is full of greats who endured slumps before roaring back. With his class, technique, and dedication, Babar can still return to being Pakistan’s most reliable match-winner. The key will be quick adjustments, regaining confidence, and embracing a fearless approach at the crease.