Former India all-rounder Sanjay Bangar has voiced his support for Babar Azam to continue leading Pakistan in white-ball cricket, emphasizing the need for the star batter to enhance his assertiveness in on-field decision-making. Bangar's endorsement comes amidst heightened scrutiny of Babar following Pakistan's premature exit from the T20 World Cup 2024.
Pakistan's elimination in the group stages marked their earliest exit since the 2014 men's T20 World Cup. Despite being finalists in 2022, they failed to meet expectations amid internal team discord. Pakistan's tournament began with a shocking loss to co-hosts and associate team, USA, followed by a critical defeat to arch-rivals India, which nearly sealed their fate. Ultimately, Pakistan's elimination was confirmed due to rain affecting USA's game against Ireland in Florida. Their final victory over Canada on June 16 was a labored effort to salvage some pride.
"I still believe he is the best choice to lead Pakistan. He needs to assert himself more, particularly in using the DRS effectively. As a captain, decisiveness is crucial. He seems to allow others to influence his decision-making process. Being more assertive can significantly bolster his leadership and decision-making," Sanjay Bangar remarked on Star Sports.
'NO ALTERNATIVE TO BABAR AZAM'
Babar Azam took over captaincy from Shaheen Afridi after the latter's brief tenure and subsequent dismissal following a single series. Shaheen led Pakistan in New Zealand earlier in the year before being replaced. Babar, having previously stepped down as Pakistan's white-ball captain following their disappointing ODI World Cup performance in India, reassumed leadership from Afridi. However, this decision appeared unsuccessful as Pakistan endured a lackluster T20 World Cup campaign.
"There is no viable alternative at the moment. Pakistan attempted to move on from his captaincy after the ODI World Cup debacle. However, they had to revert to him again, indicating a shortage of suitable captaincy candidates. Therefore, sticking with Babar, providing him with strong support, is crucial for Pakistan's prospects in the next World Cup," Bangar asserted.
Criticism has also been directed at Babar and Mohammad Rizwan's strike rates despite their consistent performances. Bangar suggested that Pakistan's middle order requires restructuring and infusion of new talent.
"The top order has always been strong. Even in their victory over India in 2021, they chased down 160 comfortably without losing a wicket. The issue lies in their middle order, which lacks firepower. Players like Mohammad Haris and Abduallah Shafique have shown promise in the white-ball format. Pakistan needs reliable performers. Hopefully, the next World Cup will be played in subcontinent conditions, where they can assemble a competitive team to challenge the top sides," Bangar added.
Babar Azam emerged as Pakistan's leading run-scorer with 122 runs in four matches. Mohammad Rizwan followed with 110 runs. Babar maintained a strike rate of 110, while Rizwan's was 90, reflective of challenging conditions in the USA, particularly in New York. None of the other batsmen managed to surpass 50 runs, with all-rounder Shadab Khan's 44 being the third-highest tally.
Pakistan finished third in Group A, securing 4 points, one less than USA and three behind group leaders India.
