(Source X)
Pakistan’s white-ball captain, Babar Azam, is ramping up his preparations to perfect his batting as the national team readies itself for the upcoming two-match Test series against Bangladesh.
The series is set to commence on August 21 at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, with the second Test taking place on August 30 at Karachi’s National Cricket Stadium.
Pakistan is set for a new beginning against Bangladesh on home turf.
This series represents Pakistan’s first opportunity to rebound after their disappointing ICC T20 World Cup 2024, where they missed the Super-8 stage and faced significant criticism. Now, the team aims for a fresh beginning with the home Tests against Bangladesh, marking the start of their 2024-25 season.
Former Test captain Babar Azam, under pressure to deliver, is determined to showcase his skill and reaffirm his status as one of the premier batters of his generation in this upcoming series.
Babar Azam, in frustration, kicks the stumps as Pakistan gears up for the Bangladesh Tests.
A video circulating on social media shows Babar Azam reacting angrily during a practice session, leaving many surprised. After edging a delivery while attempting a risky shot, Babar kicked the stumps in frustration.
The ball, pitched on off-stump, was driven aggressively by Babar without foot movement, resulting in a thick edge. The bowler, Shaheen Afridi, celebrated the successful delivery, while Babar’s reaction—kicking the stumps and disrupting the nets—sparked debate about his conduct. In the clip, a staff member helps Babar reposition the displaced stump so he can continue practicing.
Watch the video-
Babar will bat at No. 4 in the Rawalpindi Test against Bangladesh.
Babar Azam has represented Pakistan in 52 Test matches, accumulating 3,898 runs at an average of 45.86 and a strike rate of 54. His record includes 9 centuries and 26 fifties. For the upcoming first Test against Bangladesh, Babar is set to bat at number four, as reported by Geo News.
Sources indicate that Abdullah Shafiq will retain his position as an opener, with captain Shan Masood positioned to bat at number three. Additionally, Muhammad Hurraira is expected to make his Test debut in the Rawalpindi match.
The pitch is anticipated to favor bowlers, and Pakistan is likely to field a pace-heavy attack with Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah, Khurram Shahzad, and Mir Hamza.
