Colombo: Pakistan head coach Mike Hesson has strongly defended Babar Azam’s role in the middle order despite continued criticism over the former captain’s strike rate in T20 cricket. The clarification comes ahead of Pakistan’s Super-8 fixture against New Zealand national cricket team at the R. Premadasa Stadium in the 2026 ICC T20 World Cup.
Babar, currently batting at No. 4, has faced scrutiny for maintaining a powerplay strike rate below 100 in the tournament. His approach has drawn debate among fans and analysts who question whether his tempo aligns with modern T20 demands.
“The Team Needs Him in This Role”
Addressing the media before the Super-8 stage begins, Hesson made it clear that Babar’s position in the lineup is strategic rather than incidental.
“The team requires him in this role, and Babar understands that very well,” Hesson stated. “He is aware that his strike rate in the powerplay during this World Cup has been under 100. However, his value lies in stabilizing the innings when required.”
Hesson emphasized that Babar’s strength lies in anchoring the innings, particularly during challenging phases. He referenced Pakistan’s match against the USA, noting that once Babar settles at the crease, he is capable of accelerating and lifting his strike rate significantly.
According to the head coach, Babar was recalled after the Asia Cup with a clearly defined responsibility — to provide stability in the middle overs and control the tempo when early wickets fall.
Why Didn’t Babar Bat Against Namibia?
Questions were also raised about Babar not getting an opportunity to bat against Namibia. During that match, when Pakistan lost their second wicket, the team opted to send in more aggressive options such as Khawaja Nafay and later Shadab Khan, leaving Babar padded up in the dugout.
Hesson explained the tactical reasoning:
“By the 12th over, it wasn’t the right situation to send Babar in. We had other players better suited for finishing the innings strongly. Babar understands the skill set he brings and when it is most effective for the team.”
The coach reiterated that team strategy depends heavily on match context and that flexibility in batting order is part of Pakistan’s tactical approach in the tournament.
Focus Shifts to Super-8 Challenge
With the Super-8 stage underway, Pakistan will face tougher opposition, starting with New Zealand in Colombo. The management remains confident that Babar’s experience and composure will prove crucial in high-pressure situations.
As Pakistan eyes a deep run in the tournament, the debate over strike rates versus stability continues — but for now, the team management stands firmly behind its premier batter and the role assigned to him.
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