Babar Azam, a key figure in Pakistan cricket, faces criticism due to his recent underperformance, impacting the team’s results in the ICC Champions Trophy. Indian cricket legend Sunil Gavaskar has offered Babar advice, suggesting he narrow his stance at the crease to enhance his batting technique and regain his run-scoring ability. Gavaskar emphasized that improving Babar’s stance could significantly benefit his performance and bring joy to cricket fans globally. He also harshly critiqued Pakistan’s current form, claiming even India’s B team could easily defeat them, as the team continues to struggle since their 2017 Champions Trophy victory.
Babar Azam is currently facing a challenging phase. The cricketer is widely regarded as the premier figure in Pakistan cricket, particularly in terms of batting. However, for an extended period, the outcomes have not reflected the immense talent that Babar possesses. His recent struggles have significantly contributed to Pakistan’s subpar performance in the ICC Champions Trophy, placing him under relentless scrutiny. In the midst of such criticism, Indian cricket legend Sunil Gavaskar has offered Babar some crucial advice.
Gavaskar identified the shortcomings in Babar’s batting technique and proposed adjustments that the cricket star should implement to regain his scoring ability.
“If you ask me about technique, I have just one piece of advice for Babar Azam. At the moment, his stance is too wide,” Gavaskar remarked. “By narrowing the distance between his legs while at the crease, he can gain two benefits – first, he will find it easier to move forward or backward. Secondly, closing the gap increases his height, allowing for a better sense of bounce. He will stand more upright and manage the ball more effectively. If he makes this change, his former run-scoring prowess will return. This not only promises joy for the people of Pakistan but for cricket fans globally.”
Gavaskar expressed his eagerness to see Babar reclaim his outstanding form, not only for Pakistan but for the international cricket scene.
“His cover drive brings immense joy to spectators. Just look at the flick shot he executed against India for a boundary through mid-wicket; what a remarkable shot that was! The entire world wants to witness such talent,” Gavaskar continued.
Previously, Gavaskar harshly criticized the Pakistan team, even asserting that India’s second-string squad could defeat them comfortably.
“I believe a B team from India would undoubtedly put up a strong contest against Pakistan. A C team, I’m not so sure. But a B team would be very, very difficult for Pakistan to overcome in their current state,” Gavaskar commented on ‘Sports Today’.
In their first ICC tournament hosting since 1996, Pakistan was eliminated from the Champions Trophy following New Zealand’s victory over Bangladesh in another Group A match. They remain winless in the competition.
Since their triumph in the Champions Trophy in 2017, the fortunes of Pakistan cricket have waned, culminating in fifth-place finishes in the last two ODI World Cups.
With PTI Inputs
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