• Babar Azam faced heavy criticism after a disappointing dismissal for just 8 runs against West Indies in the first Test at Multan.

  • Jayden Seales took three wickets including Babar's leaving Pakistan in a tough spot on Day 1.

PAK vs WI: Fans troll Babar Azam for challenging a clear dismissal on Day 1 of the first Test
Fans troll Babar Azam for challenging a clear dismissal on Day 1 of the Multan Test (Image source: X)

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The cricketing world is abuzz with reactions following Pakistan‘s disappointing start against the West Indies in the first Test match at Multan. After a promising series against South Africa, expectations were high for Babar Azam and his team. However, the day unfolded with frustration as Babar’s early dismissal left fans and critics alike questioning his decision-making on the field.

A disheartening dismissal for Babar Azam

Babar’s dismissal for just 8 runs came as a shock to many. Facing West Indian pacer Jayden Seales, Babar was caught by a beautifully executed out-swinger that pitched outside off-stump and nipped away, catching the outside edge. His failure to move his feet and react appropriately to the delivery left him stunned, and he walked back to the pavilion visibly shaken. This moment was not just a personal setback for Babar but also a significant blow to Pakistan’s innings, which struggled under pressure from the West Indies bowlers.

West Indies take charge in Multan

The Multan pitch, initially expected to favour spin bowlers, turned out to be a playground for the West Indian pace attack. Seales emerged as the standout performer, claiming three crucial wickets and putting Pakistan on the back foot early in their innings. The conditions were challenging, with fog delaying the start of play, but Seales capitalized on the situation effectively. His performance not only showcased his skill but also highlighted Pakistan’s batting vulnerabilities.

Also READ: Kamran Akmal picks his Pakistan squad for the Champions Trophy 2025; Saim Ayub finds place

The trolls emerge on Babar’s setback

As Babar trudged back to the dressing room, he was met with a chorus of jeers from fans who had come to watch their team perform. Social media quickly became a battleground for opinions, with many fans taking to platforms like X to express their frustrations through memes and trolling comments. Phrases like “Can’t bat, can’t catch” circulated widely as supporters vented their disappointment over Babar’s recent form. Such reactions are not new; they reflect a growing impatience among fans who expect more from their star batter.

The pressure of expectations

Babar has long been regarded as one of the finest batters in contemporary cricket. However, his recent performances have raised concerns about his ability to handle pressure in crucial matches. Since December 2022, he has struggled to convert starts into significant scores, leading to questions about his technique and mental fortitude under pressure. The current Test series against the West Indies was seen as an opportunity for redemption, but his early dismissal only intensified scrutiny from both fans and analysts alike.

Here’s how fans reacted:

Also READ: Pakistan appoints new spin bowling coach ahead of the home Test series against West Indies

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About the Author:
AKASH THAPA
Akash Thapa is a dedicated cricket journalist with three years of experience in the media industry. A BA (JMC) graduate from VIPS, GGSIPU, and a postgraduate in MAJMC from the University of Lucknow, Akash combines his academic credentials with a deep-rooted passion for cricket.His background as a former junior-level wrestler and cricketer enriches his insightful analysis and commentary on the game. Known for his inventive approach to writing and his commitment to capturing the nuances of cricket, Akash is a true aficionado of the sport.Connect with Akash on LinkedIn, X, and Instagram.