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Pakistan cricket star Babar Azam faced yet another disappointing outing in the ongoing second Test against Bangladesh at Rawalpindi International Cricket Stadium.

After a series of low scores, the pressure was on Babar to deliver, especially with Pakistan losing two early wickets. Fans had high expectations, hoping the former Test captain would guide his team to a significant total.

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How did Babar Azam’s innings unfold?

Babar started his innings with promise, displaying some crisp shots and looking well-set for a big score.

However, his innings was cut short by Bangladesh's all-rounder, Shakib Al Hasan, who bowled an arm ball that skidded through and trapped Babar right in front of the stumps.

#BabarAzam got out on the arm ball again by another left-arm spinner. He’s been struggling with this issue for 4 years & hasn’t improved on it. The reality is, he’s now an average player relying solely on his technique. His game is getting poorer. #PAKvBAN pic.twitter.com/EdnSXug1c6

— Asrar Ahmed (@Im_AsrarAhmed) August 31, 2024

Babar managed only 31 runs off 77 balls, with just two boundaries to his name. This latest failure adds to a worrying trend for Babar in Test cricket.

Since 2022, he has struggled to find form in the longest format of the game, failing to score a single fifty in his last 14 innings.

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Fans react to Babar Azam's struggles in Test Cricket

Fans took to Twitter to express their frustration and concern over Babar Azam's ongoing struggles in Test cricket. 

Many advised the former captain to take a break and regroup, drawing comparisons to Virat Kohli, who took a similar step in 2022 to regain his form. 

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Kohli, who had only one 50+ score in 22 innings, decided to take a break from cricket, missing India's two tours of the West Indies and Zimbabwe. He stepped away from the game for a month.

When Kohli returned, he made an explosive comeback in the Asia Cup, regaining his form and silencing critics. Now, Babar Azam is facing similar calls from fans.

Virat Kohli had only one 50+ score in 22 innings then he decided to take some break from cricket , He missed two tour and didn't pick up the bat for One month

He return with the bang in Asia Cup

Should Babar Azam do the same ? pic.twitter.com/yoazUK20zM

— ٰImran Siddique (@imransiddique89) August 31, 2024

Should Babar Azam takes some Rest Like Virat Kohli did in the past ? pic.twitter.com/dPdIIz0ski

— ٰImran Siddique (@imransiddique89) August 31, 2024

Babar Azam completely finished

— JSK (@imjsk27) August 31, 2024

Change of tactics from Babar Azam today. pic.twitter.com/xlrySAM9R6

— 𝙎𝙝𝙚𝙧𝙞 (@CallMeSheri1) August 31, 2024

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Author(s)
Saurav Goyal Photo

Saurav Goyal is a content producer for The Sporting News’ India edition.