Babar Azam’s Persistent Struggles in Test Cricket Continue in Multan

The first Test match between Pakistan and England in Multan unfolded positively for the hosts as they concluded Day 1 with a score of 328/4. The team’s success was bolstered by impressive centuries from captain Shan Masood and opener Abdullah Shafique. However, it was not an equally favorable day for former Pakistan captain Babar Azam, who once again struggled to make a significant impact with the bat.

Babar Azam, a pivotal figure in Pakistan’s cricket lineup, managed only 30 runs off 71 deliveries before being dismissed in the penultimate over of the day by England’s Chris Woakes. This dismissal marks the 16th consecutive Test innings in which Babar has failed to secure a score above fifty, continuing a drought that has spanned nearly two years. His last half-century in Test cricket was recorded in December 2022 against New Zealand, where he scored 161 runs in Karachi.

The ongoing series of low scores has raised concerns among fans and cricket analysts alike. Babar Azam’s performance has been scrutinized on social media platforms, with many expressing disappointment over his continued difficulties in reaching significant individual scores. Despite the flat nature of the pitch in Multan, considered favorable for batting, Babar was unable to capitalize on these conditions.

During the innings, Babar joined Saud Shakeel at the crease after the dismissal of opener Abdullah Shafique. Shafique’s earlier partnership with Shan Masood had added a record-breaking 253 runs for the second wicket. Nonetheless, Babar’s stay at the crease was short-lived. Woakes’ well-strategized delivery caught Babar lbw, despite an unsuccessful review request.

His recent performance has seen a stark contrast to his form in 2022, during which he averaged 69.64 with four centuries and seven half-centuries. However, his recent statistics have declined significantly, with an average of 20.42 in 2024.