Ricky Ponting Says Babar Azam Has Lost Some Timing and Power, Urges Team to Rely on His Best Form

Islamabad: Former Australian captain and ICC Hall of Famer Ricky Ponting has expressed concern over Pakistan star Babar Azam’s recent inconsistent performances.

Speaking on the ICC show “The ICC Review”, Ponting said that although Babar scored an unbeaten half-century in the final T20I against Australia before the World Cup, his batting lacked the fluency and rhythm that had previously defined him.

“Babar Azam has lost some of his timing and power at the crease, which is affecting his ability to benefit the team during the middle overs,” Ponting said.

Commenting on Babar’s innings against the Netherlands, he added, “If you score 15 runs off 18 balls, you’re not only putting pressure on yourself but also on the partner at the other end. Boundaries early in the innings are essential to maintain team momentum.”

Ponting also questioned the decision to bat Babar at number four, suggesting that he should be moved back to number three. He explained that with fewer fielders in the powerplay, Babar could regain confidence, while batsmen coming after him could play more aggressively in the middle overs.

He concluded by emphasizing that Pakistan’s progress depends on Babar Azam performing at his best, urging the team management to make crucial decisions regarding his role.