Pakistan’s cricket captain, Babar Azam, has been facing a challenging period, with his batting form under intense scrutiny. In the recent ICC Champions Trophy 2025, Pakistan’s performance has been lackluster, leading to early elimination after losses to New Zealand and India. Babar’s individual performance has mirrored the team’s struggles, with his last ODI century dating back to August 2023 against Nepal. Since then, he has managed seven half-centuries in 23 innings, but his once-fluent stroke play appears diminished.
In this context, Indian cricket legend Sunil Gavaskar has come forward with constructive advice for Babar. Speaking on former Pakistan cricketer Basit Ali’s YouTube channel, Gavaskar pinpointed a technical flaw in Babar’s current batting stance. He observed that Babar’s wide stance might be restricting his movement and affecting his ability to judge the ball’s bounce effectively.
Gavaskar suggested that by narrowing the distance between his feet, Babar could achieve better balance and mobility at the crease. This adjustment would not only enhance his front and backfoot play but also provide a more upright posture, aiding in better assessment of the ball’s trajectory. Gavaskar emphasized that such a modification could help Babar rediscover his prolific run-scoring form, bringing joy to cricket enthusiasts worldwide.
Despite the team’s recent setbacks, Babar’s talent remains undeniable. His elegant cover drives and wristy flicks have been a delight for fans, even drawing admiration from opponents. In Pakistan’s match against India during the Champions Trophy, Babar showcased glimpses of his class with a sublime flick through mid-wicket, underscoring his innate batting prowess.
However, the pressures of captaincy, coupled with the weight of expectations, seem to have taken a toll on his performance. The Champions Trophy exit, especially on home soil, has intensified criticism from former players and media pundits. Amidst this, Gavaskar’s measured and specific advice offers a pathway for Babar to reflect and possibly recalibrate his technique.
As Pakistan prepares for their final Champions Trophy match against Bangladesh on February 27, all eyes will be on Babar Azam. This match presents an opportunity for him to implement the suggested technical adjustments and end the tournament on a positive note. A strong performance could not only silence critics but also serve as a catalyst for a resurgence in form.
In the broader context, Babar’s journey reflects the challenges faced by modern cricketers, where continuous adaptation and resilience are key to sustaining success. Constructive insights from legends like Gavaskar can be invaluable in navigating such phases. For fans and followers of the game, there is hope that Babar Azam will emerge stronger, displaying the elegance and effectiveness that have defined his career thus far.
In conclusion, while criticism is an inevitable aspect of professional sports, guidance from seasoned experts provides a balanced perspective. Sunil Gavaskar’s advice to Babar Azam is a testament to the camaraderie and respect that transcends cricketing rivalries, emphasizing the universal spirit of the sport.
