How Can Babar Azam Overcome His Lean Patch In Pakistan Vs Bangladesh 2nd Test?

Babar Azam is suffering from poor form in Tests [X]Babar Azam is suffering from poor form in Tests [X]

On Friday, Pakistan will face Bangladesh in the second Test of the ongoing two-match series at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium. The first game was forgettable for Pakistan, as they suffered a devastating ten-wicket defeat. 

Although their bowlers blew hot and cold, Pakistan's horrendous batting performance in the second innings was a major reason behind their disastrous loss in the first Test. 

While Saud Shakeel and Mohammad Rizwan slammed flamboyant centuries, Babar Azam's poor outing in both innings let the home side down in the high-voltage affair. 

After recording a two-ball duck in the first innings, Babar was castled by Bangladesh's rookie pacer Nahid Rana for 22 in the second innings. 

But this was not a one-off failure from the talismanic batter, as he has been struggling to score big for quite a while now. 

Babar Azam's worrisome recent record in Tests

Since 2023, Babar Azam has managed only 275 runs in 13 Test innings at an average of just over 21, which is certainly below par as per his standards. He has got starts, but failed to convert them into significant knocks. 

The fact that he hasn't scored a single fifty during this period highlights his underwhelming batting performance in the purest format of late. 

Babar Azam's Test form: A serious concern for Pakistan

As Babar has been Pakistan's mainstay across formats, his worrisome batting form is certainly alarming for the Men in Green. The hosts have high hopes from him, as he is one of the most experienced batters in their Test squad. 

Furthermore, with Saim Ayub being a newcomer and Shan Masood blowing hot and cold, Pakistan desperately needs Babar to step up with the bat and slam a daddy hundred in the do-or-die decider against Bangladesh. 

How can Babar Azam score big in 2nd Test vs Bangladesh?

Babar should work on his batting technique

Babar Azam must resolve some technical issues in his game to overcome his lean patch. He should learn from legendary New Zealand batter Kane Williamson and bat inside the box around the off stump. 

The stylish batter shouldn't chase the deliveries wide outside the off stump, something that led to his downfall in the second innings of the last game. 

Additionally, he should use his front foot more against the spinners rather than hanging back and getting caught in the crease. 

Don't get bothered by outside noise

Babar's Test form is definitely a concern, but there is absolutely no doubt regarding his ability and class. 

So, he shouldn't give attention to the outside noise and focus on fine-tuning the technical and mental aspects of his game.

Don't play too many dots

When a batter plays too many dot balls, he eventually goes into the shell before attempting a risky shot to release pressure. 

So, Babar must keep the scoreboard ticking so that he doesn't lose patience and throw his wicket away with a needless shot.