Synopsis
Former Pakistan cricketer Rashid Latif has voiced concerns over Babar Azam's cautious batting approach in the Champions Trophy opener against New Zealand. Latif believes Babar's predictable play and lack of aggression contributed to Pakistan's 60-run loss, highlighting the need for strategic changes ahead of crucial matches.Key Takeaways
- Rashid Latif criticizes Babar Azam's batting strategy.
- Babar's performance included 64 runs off 90 balls.
- Pakistan's failure to chase 321 runs against New Zealand.
- Concerns over Babar’s predictable batting style.
- India's bowling strength poses challenges for Pakistan.
New Delhi, Feb 22 (NationPress) Former Pakistan batter Rashid Latif has expressed his criticism towards former captain Babar Azam regarding his strategy in the Champions Trophy opener against New Zealand in Karachi, where the home team faced a 60-run defeat. This match marked the ICC tournament's return to Pakistan after a lengthy absence since 1996.
During the chase of 321, Babar managed to score 64 runs off 90 balls, while teammates Salman Agha and Kushdil Shah made quick contributions of 42 and 69 runs, respectively, but it wasn’t sufficient to secure a win.
Post-match, fans and former cricketers voiced their concerns over Babar’s low strike rate in a high-pressure chase. Latif agreed with the criticism, suggesting that Babar should have adopted a more aggressive approach during his innings.
“I believe Babar Azam is facing justified criticism. If the ball isn’t coming onto the bat, then a Plan B is essential. Accumulating dot balls only adds pressure to the team. Babar should have taken more risks, especially in the opening ten overs when they struggle against spin. While some view Pakistan as unpredictable, Babar’s batting has become overly predictable,” Latif stated in an interview with IANS.
Latif further remarked that Babar is no longer seen as Pakistan's primary hope, contrasting him with Virat Kohli, who has gained global respect by performing under pressure for India.
“Bowlers have become familiar with his shot selection against various deliveries. Babar was once considered Pakistan’s beacon of hope, but that’s changed as other players are stepping up. When Virat Kohli falters, players like Shubman Gill, Rohit Sharma, Shreyas Iyer, Hardik Pandya, and KL Rahul often deliver,” he added.
As the highly anticipated match between India and Pakistan approaches in Dubai on Sunday, Latif noted that the Pakistan side, led by Mohammad Rizwan, appears less formidable against Rohit Sharma & Co.
“Analyzing both teams, Pakistan seems to be the weaker side. Historically, India has had a stronger record against Pakistan, and while India’s batting is often credited for their tournament successes, Pakistan’s has consistently relied on its bowling strength,” he stated.
“This upcoming match is crucial for Pakistan. My concerns extend beyond just the Champions Trophy; it’s about the future of Pakistan cricket as well. Numerous discussions surrounded India’s involvement in the tournament, but with the cricket now underway, Pakistan has already lost their opening match while India has secured a victory. In a tournament like the Champions Trophy, where every team is top-tier, the margin for error is minimal. It’s worth noting that Pakistan also lost their opening match in 2017.
Latif also emphasized India's bowling prowess, even without pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah.
“I contend that India’s bowling is currently superior. Although Jasprit Bumrah is absent, their spinners are excelling, and in conditions like Dubai, Pakistan will find it challenging to tackle their spin attack,” he concluded.
