• Home
  • Player Stories
  • Babar And Virat Kohli Almost Rashid Latif Highlights Pakistan Captains Weakness

"Babar and Virat Kohli almost...": Rashid Latif Highlights Pakistan Captain's Weakness

image-lgnertluBabar Azam scored a stunning century in the second T20I vs New Zealand 

In a thrilling encounter between Pakistan and New Zealand at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, Babar Azam failed to contribute as he was dismissed by Adam Milne for just one run. The Pakistan captain had managed a sensational century in the preceding game, but in the third T20I, all he could managed was a solitary run, a game which the hosts eventually lost by four runs.

Former Pakistan cricketer, Rashid Latif, while speaking on a local news channel, identified a weakness in Babar's batting and highlighted areas where he can improve significantly.

Latif noted that Babar and Virat Kohli both share a similar problem of not taking the entire foot forward while striking the ball with their bodies, instead of holding it upwards. He explained that this technique increases the probability of him getting out, especially in areas where the ball swings the most. The erstwhile cricketer further emphasized the need for Babar to be cautious in that area.

"Babar and Virat Kohli almost face the same problem. Both of them do not take the entire foot forward and strike the ball with the body, rather holding it upwards. Chances of dismissal are higher in the area where the ball swings the most. Even when he [Babar] hit the last stroke to complete his century, the ball crossed over the gully point - so he needs to stay a little cautious in that area," said Latif.

Additionally, the Pakistan veteran pointed out that during the T20I series against England, pacer Chris Woakes worked on his bowling and quickly figured out that transitioning into a slower ball might help him claim the Pakistan skipper’s wicket when the swing wasn't working.

"Woakes, when he came here for the T20I series, worked on his bowling as well and quickly figured out that if the swing isn't working, then transitioning it into a slower ball might help you in claiming Babar’s wicket," added the 54-year-old.

Despite Pakistan's loss in the third T20I, the Men in Green are currently ahead in the series with a margin of 2-1. The upcoming fourth T20I on Thursday, April 20, at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium promises to be another enthralling match-up, as both teams battle it out for victory.