Babar Azam’s Test Form Under Scrutiny
Pakistan captain and middle-order batter Babar Azam has been facing a prolonged slump in Test cricket, raising concerns about his form and the team’s stability. Once considered one of Pakistan’s most dependable batsmen across formats, Babar’s recent performances in Tests have been inconsistent, leaving fans and selectors worried.
According to records, Babar’s last Test century came in December 2022. Since then, he has appeared in 27 Test innings, but has managed to score only three half-centuries. This performance, spread over nearly three years, marks one of the most challenging periods of his career in the longest format.
Recent Struggles Against South Africa
During Pakistan’s tour of South Africa between December 2024 and January 2025, Babar scored the three half-centuries that punctuated his otherwise quiet period. Despite these efforts, his form dipped again shortly afterward, leaving Pakistan’s middle-order under pressure to deliver consistently.
In the recent Test series against South Africa in Lahore, Babar’s struggle continued. He managed only 23 runs before being dismissed by spinner Simon Harmer, further intensifying scrutiny of his Test performance. Analysts point out that his inability to convert starts into big scores has been a recurring concern.
Home Series Disappointment Against West Indies
Babar’s challenges were also evident during the two-match home series against the West Indies in January 2025. Across both matches, he scored a total of just 45 runs, a return far below expectations for a player of his calibre. The series reinforced concerns about his vulnerability to both pace and spin in home conditions.
Cricket experts note that Babar’s struggles have not only affected his personal record but have also put additional pressure on Pakistan’s middle-order, often forcing other batters to adopt a defensive approach to stabilize innings.
Impact on Pakistan’s Test Prospects
Babar Azam’s slump comes at a critical time for Pakistan Test cricket. The team is trying to build consistency under a mix of experienced and young players. Experts argue that the lack of big scores from the captain puts the team at a disadvantage, especially against strong bowling attacks like South Africa and West Indies.
Historically, Babar has been one of Pakistan’s most prolific limited-overs batters. His ability to anchor innings and score under pressure in ODIs and T20Is has been widely praised. However, his conversion rate in Tests remains a concern. For instance, in the last three years, only three fifties in 27 innings highlight a stark contrast to his performances in shorter formats.
Calls for Adaptation and Technique Review
Cricket analysts suggest that Babar may need to re-evaluate his technique and mental approach in Test cricket. Facing quality bowling attacks consistently in challenging conditions requires adaptability, patience, and shot selection refinement.
Former Pakistani players have emphasized the importance of Babar finding a balance between aggression and caution, especially in situations where the team relies heavily on his middle-order stability.
Conclusion
Babar Azam’s Test career, once considered a cornerstone for Pakistan’s batting lineup, is now at a crossroads. His recent form raises questions about how he can regain consistency and contribute significantly to the team’s Test ambitions.
As Pakistan prepares for future series, including potential tours to cricketing powerhouses, all eyes will be on Babar to reverse the slump and reaffirm his reputation as one of the world’s leading batters.
