ICC Champions Trophy 2025: Will Pakistan Move On from Babar Azam Post-Champions Trophy 2025? Shoaib Akhtar Sparks Debate
Former Pakistan pacer Shoaib Akhtar has predicted that Babar Azam might be dropped from Pakistan's white-ball setup if he fails to perform in the 2025 Champions Trophy. Babar, who has managed only 935 runs in 2024 at an average of 32.24, needs to deliver match-winning knocks in the tournament to secure his place amid competition from rising talents like Kamran Ghulam.
With the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 approaching, all eyes are on Babar Azam, Pakistan’s star batsman, who is under pressure due to his recent form. After a solid start to his career, Babar struggled in 2024, amassing only 935 runs in 32 matches at an average of 32.24.
His poor form has raised doubts about his place in Pakistan’s white-ball setup. Shoaib Akhtar, the former Pakistan pacer, has stated that if Babar fails to deliver in the upcoming Champions Trophy, he could be dropped from the squad. He said:
He’s a star, I back him, but the thing is with the new management, new mindset, he has to change his neurological wiring because the new management will not consider him in T20s, as a matter of fact, even for the one-dayers.
Akhtar emphasised that Babar needs to prove himself by scoring match-winning centuries in the tournament to secure his spot.
With competitors like Kamran Ghulam and Tayyab Tahir making an impact, Babar’s place is not guaranteed. Akhtar also suggested that Babar should alter his mindset to regain his form, as the new management might not keep him in the squad if he continues underperforming in ODIs and T20Is.
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