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Pakistan head coach Mike Hesson opened up on why former captain Babar Azam is batting at number four in T20 matches, even though he has mostly opened the innings in different leagues and formats.
Speaking ahead of the Super Eight clash against New Zealand, Hesson said the decision is based on the team’s current strategy and balance. He made it clear that Babar’s role in the middle order is part of a specific plan designed to suit the team’s needs.
Babar Azam's form in T20 World Cup 2026
Babar has had a forgettable outing in the ongoing T20 World Cup, scoring 66 runs in four matches at an average of 22 and a strike rate of 115.78.
Mike Hesson on Babar Azam's batting demotion
Addressing concerns about his scoring rate in the power play, Hesson said that the stylish batter is aware of the situation.
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"Babar is well aware of that. I think he's well aware strike rate in the power play in World Cups is less than 100 in T20s. So clearly, that's not a role that we think here we need," Hesson said.
Hesson explained that the team believes Babar is more effective in the middle overs, especially when stability is required.
"We think he's a fine player through the middle, if required, in terms of if we're in a little bit of trouble, or as we saw against the USA, once he gets himself set, he can increase his strike rate at that point," Hesson added.
The coach also shared that Babar was given a clearly defined role after the Asia Cup to strengthen the middle order.
"So, we brought Babar back in for a specific role post the Asia Cup. We wanted some batsmanship through the middle, and he certainly brings that for us. And he did in many games throughout the last 10."
How Babar Azam's batting demotion allow other players to play aggressive cricket?
Hesson further explained that Babar’s position in the order allows other players, who are more suited to aggressive hitting at the end, to take charge in the final overs.
"At the 12th over mark, Babar Azam is not the best person to come in. We've got plenty of other options who can perform that role towards the end. And Babar is actually the first to acknowledge that," said Hesson.
He concluded by saying that Babar understands his strengths and what the team expects from him.
"He knows that he's got a certain set of skills that the team require, and there are certain times where other players can perform that role more efficiently."
Pakistan's performance in T20 World Cup 2026
Pakistan have sealed their T20 World Cup 2026 Super 8 berth after finishing second in Group A. They completed the group stage with three wins and one loss. The Men in Green secured their place with a dominant 102-run victory over Namibia. Pakistan will now face New Zealand in their first Super 8 clash.
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