Babar Azam Out: Pakistan head coach Mike Hesson opened up on the reason behind the decision to move Babar Azam to a lower position than his usual in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2026. Traditionally he is an opener but has been assigned a new position in the batting order for the tournament. Due to this decision, many former players drew criticism for this move.
Babar Azam Out
In the recent clash of Pakistan against Namibia, Babar did not get an opportunity to bat, being in the playing XI, which raised many questions. Above Babar, power hitters Khawaja Nafay and Shadab Khan got a chance, leaving the star batter to find no place in batting.
“Babar strike rate in the powerplay in WC is less than 100”: Mike Hesson
After that, Hesson opened up on the decision to move Babar down the order, stating that the changes within the team are taken according to the needs and Babar has a strike rate of less than 100 in power plays.
He said,
“Look, it’s the role the team requires, and Babar is well aware of that. I think he’s well aware his strike rate in the powerplay in World Cups is less than 100.”
Further, Hesson added that Babar is definitely a reliable one in the middle order and is capable of stabilizing the innings when the team is under pressure.
He said,
“We think he’s a fine player through the middle if required, especially if we’re in a bit of trouble. As we saw against the USA, once he gets set, he can increase his strike rate. We brought Babar back in for a specific role post the Asia Cup. We wanted some batsmanship through the middle, and he brings that for us.”
Pakistan team head coach Mike Hesson also clarified regarding Pakistan’s strategy of using Babar Azam, stating that he offers valuable skills.
He said,
“The other day, when we got to the 12th over mark, Babar Azam was not the best person to come in. We have other options who can perform that role better at the end. Babar is the first to acknowledge that. He knows he has a certain set of skills the team requires, and at times other players can perform certain roles more differently.”
Pakistan will now be facing off against New Zealand in their first clash of the Super 8 on February 21, Saturday, at the R. Premadasa International Cricket Stadium, Colombo.
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