Former Australian cricket legend Ricky Ponting has expressed concern over Pakistan star Babar Azam’s inconsistent performances in the T20 World Cup and offered key advice to improve his game.
Speaking to The ICC Review, Ponting said that scoring just 15 runs off 18 balls not only adds pressure on the batter but also puts additional strain on the partner at the crease. He suggested that Babar should aim for two boundaries in the first six balls to set the game’s momentum, warning that failing to do so could shift the match’s tempo.
Ponting added that Babar may have temporarily lost some of his natural aggression and recommended that he play from his preferred third position during the powerplay to fully exploit fielding restrictions.
Meanwhile, former Indian cricketer Ravi Shastri also commented on Babar’s performance, noting that top players face higher expectations at the peak of their careers. He emphasized that Babar should attempt two boundaries in the opening over, even at the risk of getting out, to gauge the bowler and establish a favorable position.
Shastri further said he defended Babar at the start of the tournament because of his experience in big events, stressing that Pakistan will need the best version of Babar Azam to progress further in the World Cup.
Pakistan’s next T20 World Cup match is scheduled against the United States on February 11 in Colombo.
