Former Pakistan captain Babar Azam received intense scrutiny following the early exit of his team from the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. However, while the former Pakistani cricketer has openly criticized his performance, several Indian cricket greats have stepped forward to protect him.
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Babar’s Struggle in the Champions Trophy
Tournament host Pakistan was eliminated after losing to New Zealand and India in the group stage. Babar’s performance was closely analyzed, and it seemed too slow with a 321 sudden pursuit with 64 off-90 balls against New Zealand.
Against India, he managed just 23 runs before being fired by Hardik Pandya. Forms beyond his form were inconsistent. His last ODI century will be playing against Nepal in August 2023.
Among the Champions Trophy Run, Babar has been heavily criticized by former Pakistani players. Shoaib Akhtar called Babar Azam a “scam” in a poignant review of his performance.
Sidhu encourages respect for Babar
Former Indian cricketer Navjot Singh Sidhu opposes criticism aimed at Babar and calls for respect for the 29-year-old batsman.
Sidhu, known for his colorful analogies and passionate commentary, compared the situation in Babar to the situation of a general who endured attacks from strangers but was emotionally crushed when he was betrayed by his own man.
“Babar Azam is human too. Virat Kohli fails, and Babar is the same. Respect Babar Azam instead of throwing stones at him. Leave him alone and let him play for the country. He is your hero and he deserves respect,” Sidhu said.
Sidhu’s remarks were a direct response to growing criticism in Pakistan, where fans and experts accused Babar of selfishly playing. The former Indian opener has been similar to Kohli’s lean patch in recent years.
“He ran for you, and play for you for a long time. Learn to respect him. Sidhu should not stand in the distance and throw stones,” he said, drawing comparisons to Virat Kohli’s early struggle.
Gabaskar’s technical advice for Babar
Indian batting legend Sunil Gabaskar also shows weight and offers Babar technical advice to improve his form.
Speaking about former Pakistani cricketer Basit Ali’s YouTube channel, Gavaskar suggested that Babar should adjust his stance to strengthen his movements in the crease.
“Reducing your foot width while standing in the crease gives you two benefits: it improves your back and forth movement and improves your ability to judge bounce,” Gavaskar said.
He added that minor technical adjustments will help Babar rediscover his best form.
Pakistan’s next match
Despite their exclusion, Pakistan will face Bangladesh on Wednesday, February 26th in their final Champions Trophy Fixture.
Babar Azam will try to regain his rhythm as speculation about his future as the captain continues.