In the intense world of cricket, player performances are not only scrutinised by fans but also by fellow teammates. The ODI World Cup 2023, hosted by India, witnessed a similar scenario as Pakistan’s all-rounder, Imad Wasim, took a moment to comment on skipper Babar Azam’s recent performance. The remarks followed Pakistan's recent 62-run defeat to Australia on October 20 at Bengaluru’s M. Chinnaswamy Stadium.
Babar Azam's flop show was yet again on a show against Australia as he could only manage to score 18 off 14 balls. He fell prey to the crafty leg-spin of Adam Zampa which dented Pakistan during a mammoth run chase.
Speaking to a local Pakistani television channel post-match, Imad Wasim questioned Babar Azam's capability and said he is yet to win a big match for Pakistan.
“At the world stage there is pressure, but it is also the place where you prove your worth. I think the last time Babar performed in a big match was against New Zealand in the 2019 World Cup, when he scored a century. But after that, he is yet to win a big match for Pakistan. This is not criticism, but a fact," Wasim said as quoted by Cricket Pakistan.
Azam's track record in the ongoing ODI World Cup has left many hoping for more. With the weight of captaincy on his shoulders, Azam has so far amassed 83 runs in four innings, which translates to a less-than-impressive average of 20.75 and a strike rate standing at 79.05.
In his conversation, Imad Wasim wasn't just focused on the past but also looked ahead, pointing out the need for Babar Azam to realign his approach, especially given his reputation. "Being the number one batter in ODIs, it is Babar’s responsibility to win matches but questions will be raised if he doesn’t do that. He needs to bat in accordance with the team’s requirement. He has the ability to dominate bowlers and this World Cup is the place to do that," Imad Wasim added.
In a riveting run fest, David Warner and Mitchell Marsh's towering centuries helped Australia post a mammoth total of 367/9 despite Shaheen Afridi's five-wicket haul. In reply, despite a promising start in their chase, Pakistan was restricted to 305, being all out in 45.3 overs, thanks to Adam Zampa's brilliant four-fer.
With this win Australia surged to no.4 in the points table with four points in four matches and NRR of -0.195. Notable Pakistan, who were flattened by India in their previous match, too have four points in as many matches but are placed at fifth spot due to inferior net run rate of -0.456.
Pakistan will next face Afghanistan on October 23 at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.
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