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In a significant shake-up following Pakistan‘s dismal performance in the first Test against England, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) made the surprising decision to drop three of its star players – Babar Azam, Shaheen Afridi and Naseem Shah – from the squad for the remaining two Tests. The PCB cited concerns over the players’ poor form and fitness as the reasons behind this drastic move. While there had been growing calls for changes in the team after the Bangladesh series defeat, few expected such a bold step from the PCB, particularly in the middle of a high-stakes series against England.
Viral video: Emotional Babar Azam comforted by Jason Gillespie, Shan Masood
Amidst this, A heartfelt moment involving Babar Azam recently surfaced online, showing the Pakistani batter visibly distressed after his exclusion from the Test squad. In the viral video, head coach Jason Gillespie, assistant coach Azhar Mahmood and captain Shan Masood were seen consoling Babar, who appeared shaken by the decision. Although the content of their conversation remains unclear, it was apparent that Babar was emotionally impacted by his removal from the side. Gillespie and Mahmood were seen offering support and reassurance to the player, suggesting the weight of the situation for the talented right-hander.
Here’s the video:
Looks like Jason Glipssie, Azhar Mahmood and Shan Masood are not happy with the exclusion of Babar Azam… pic.twitter.com/9EOekbTrR8
— Hassan Abbasian (@HassanAbbasian) October 13, 2024
Also READ: Ben Stokes returns as England name playing XI for the second Test against Pakistan
Babar’s decline in form: A growing concern
Babar’s struggles with the bat in Test cricket have been well-documented. Since his stellar innings of 161 against England in Karachi in December 2022, Babar’s performance has plummeted. Over the course of his last nine Tests, he has accumulated just 366 runs at a worrying average of 20.33. His drop in form has coincided with twice stepping down from the captaincy within a year, adding further pressure on his shoulders. Pakistan’s prolonged slump, which includes six consecutive Test defeats and an 11-match winless streak on home soil, has placed even greater scrutiny on Babar’s role within the team.
Pakistan’s struggles against a dominant England
Pakistan’s first Test against England was a disaster, losing by an innings and 47 runs despite posting over 500 runs in their first innings. With two Tests still remaining in the series, Pakistan faces a monumental task to turn their fortunes around. England, brimming with confidence after their dominant performance, will be a formidable challenge. Pakistan’s squad will need to regroup and make crucial tactical adjustments if they hope to avoid a series whitewash. However, given England’s momentum and Pakistan’s ongoing struggles, the road ahead looks incredibly challenging for the team.
Also READ: Babar Azam, Shaheen Afridi dropped as Pakistan name squad for the 2nd and 3rd Test against England
PAK vs ENG [WATCH]: Jason Gillespie, Shan Masood console Babar Azam after his omission from the remaining England Tests
