Babar Azam To Be Dropped For Second Test Against England: Report

In a dramatic shakeup following Pakistan’s innings defeat to England in the first Test in Multan, Babar Azam, one of Pakistan’s most celebrated cricketers, is set to face the axe. ESPNcricinfo has reported that the decision to drop Babar was taken by a newly formed selection committee that met in Lahore soon after the Multan defeat.

Babar Azam’s recent struggles

Babar Azam’s recent form has been concerning, especially in Test cricket. His struggles have been magnified over the last two years, with the prolific batter unable to find his rhythm. His last Test half-century came in December 2022, and since then, he has failed to cross the 50-run mark in 18 innings. This extended run of poor form has led to increasing scrutiny from both fans and experts alike.

The decision to drop Babar from the squad is a massive blow to his career. Once heralded as one of the best batters in the world, his slump in form has damaged his reputation. For a player of his caliber, this omission may feel like a huge setback, not only for his playing career but also for his leadership aspirations.

Selection committee’s decision to drop Babar

The newly formed selection committee, comprising former players like Aaqib Javed, Asad Shafiq, Azhar Ali, and others, met twice over the weekend following the Multan Test defeat. They discussed several changes to the squad, and Babar’s omission became the most notable decision to emerge from these meetings.

Mohsin Naqvi, the chairman of the committee, played a key role in the discussions. The committee’s objective was to make bold changes to the squad to address Pakistan’s ongoing struggles, and Naqvi endorsed the recommendation to drop Babar.

Babar Azam’s test record

Despite his recent form, Babar’s record in Test cricket is nothing short of impressive. From November 2019 to December 2022, Babar was one of the most consistent batters in world cricket, averaging nearly 62 in 25 Test matches. His ability to play match-winning innings placed him among the elite, leading to conversations about him joining the ranks of cricket’s “Fab Four.”

Pakistan’s struggles in Test cricket are not limited to Babar’s individual form. The team is currently on a six-Test losing streak, including their recent innings defeat to England in Multan. This dismal run has left Pakistan at the bottom of the World Test Championship (WTC) standings, casting doubt over their chances of making a significant impact in the next cycle.

Apart from Babar’s omission, Pakistan will likely be without Abrar Ahmed, who remains in hospital and is doubtful for the second Test. The selectors are weighing their options for replacements, with Noman Ali and Sajid Khan in contention.

Shaheen Afridi, another key player, has struggled to regain his form after a knee injury. His fitness remains a question mark, and there is a possibility that he might be rested for the second Test as well.