Former Pakistan spinner Mushtaq Ahmed suggests that Babar Azam, akin to Virat Kohli’s approach during a slump, should consider taking a break to rejuvenate and rediscover his best batting form.
Mushtaq Ahmed advised Babar Azam to consider taking a break, drawing parallels to Virat Kohli’s turnaround after a slump. Kohli endured a tough phase from 2020 to 2022, averaging under 40 and scoring just two centuries in 83 games. However, intermittent breaks post IPL 2022 revitalized Kohli, propelling him to a stellar comeback in 2023, amassing over 2,000 runs at an exceptional average of 66.06, including eight centuries.
Addressing Cricket Pakistan, Mushtaq highlighted Kohli’s resurgence as a template for Babar’s recovery from a slump. He emphasized the global coaching practice of granting breaks to mentally distressed players, suggesting that such respites could aid Babar in rediscovering his form.
“Across the world, we provide coaching, and when we realize a player is mentally disturbed, we give them a break of 2 or 3 matches,” Mushtaq said. “When Virat Kohli was out of form, he took a break, and since then, he hasn’t faced the same struggles. The management should have taken ownership and advised Babar to take a rest,” Mushtaq said.
“Babar has given outstanding performances, and he is our hero. He is considered one of the top players in the world. However, he faced challenges such as losing the Asia Cup, the World Cup, and subsequently losing the captaincy amid rumors and difficulties,” he added.
Babar, after an impressive start in 2023, faced a tough phase in the Asia Cup and World Cup, prompting him to step down from captaincy across formats. Despite a strong 151 against Nepal, he hasn’t scored a century in 16 innings and managed just four 50+ scores, ending the year with an average below 40. Babar continues to struggle, tallying only 77 runs in four innings with a subpar average as Pakistan trails 0-2 in the series.
Expressing concern, Mushtaq emphasized that without significant improvements in the upcoming Test or one-day match, Babar Azam might face a sudden decline.
As the final Test at the Sydney Cricket Ground approaches, Pakistan gears up for a demanding schedule, transitioning swiftly to a five-match T20I series in New Zealand soon after concluding the Australia tour.
Last Updated on January 2, 2024
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