Pakistan’s campaign in the Champions Trophy 2025 began with a disappointing 60-run defeat against New Zealand at the National Stadium in Karachi. Chasing 321, Pakistan struggled as their top order collapsed, with Babar Azam’s sluggish 64 off 90 balls coming under severe criticism.
Shoaib Akhtar Questions Babar’s Intent
Former pacer Shoaib Akhtar slammed Babar Azam’s approach, stating on Tapmad’s Game On Hai show:
“Babar Azam has become the product he had to become. There is no intention to improve. You can’t run a team by acting like Maula Jatt. T20 skills don’t work in longer formats; you need intelligence and game awareness.”
Babar’s Slow Innings Under Scrutiny
Babar’s knock was among his slowest in ODIs, with a strike rate of just 71.11. His approach in the powerplay was particularly cautious, scoring only 12 off 27 balls. Even in the middle overs, he failed to accelerate, managing just 32 runs off his last 43 deliveries. Between overs 15.3 and 32, he didn’t hit a single boundary.
Former Cricketers Join in Criticism
Ex-Pakistan cricketer Basit Ali questioned Babar’s intent, saying:
“Was he playing for himself or the team? He took 81 balls for his fifty, while Salman Ali Agha hit more boundaries than him.”
Indian batter Cheteshwar Pujara also pointed out Babar’s defensive mindset:
“In ODIs, you can’t just look to survive; you have to play to win the match.”
Pakistan’s Next Challenge: India
With their net run rate dropping to -1.20, Pakistan faces a tough road ahead. Their next game against India on February 23 is now a must-win to keep their semi-final hopes alive.
