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Sunday, 18 October 2026AboutAdvertiseContact

Shaheen backs Babar despite recent batting struggles

Pakistan captain says star batter remains central to team despite poor recent form in Test cricket.

At a glance

  • Shaheen Shah Afridi said Babar Azam faces no pressure and is central to Pakistan's team
  • Azam scored 97 runs in the recent Test series against England
  • Azam was Pakistan's leading run scorer in their ODI series against Australia with 125 runs in three matches

Pakistan captain Shaheen Shah Afridi has expressed confidence in batter Babar Azam ahead of an ODI tri-series against England and Sri Lanka, dismissing concerns about the player's recent performance. Afridi said Babar faces no pressure and remains the team's backbone.

Azam managed 97 runs in Pakistan's recent Test series against England and scored 58 runs across four domestic innings after returning to that format. However, Afridi noted Azam's ODI record remains strong, citing his 125 runs across three matches in Pakistan's recent series victory against Australia.

Why it matters

Pakistan prepares for a competitive ODI tri-series at home, with Afridi seeking to reassure stakeholders about key player form ahead of the tournament.

Original reporting

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