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🏏 Babar Azam vs Spin: A Battle He Must Overcome
Babar Azam, once a dominant force against spin, is now struggling against bowlers who turn the ball into him. As Pakistan gears up to face India in the Champions Trophy, their arch-rivals will be well aware of this frailty and look to capitalize on it.
🔥 The Rise and Fall of Babar’s Spin Game
At his peak until 2021, Babar boasted a staggering 89.94 average against spin in ODIs with a strike rate of 89. His ability to maneuver fielders and find gaps made him nearly unplayable. Unlike many Asian batters, he never relied on sweeping but instead played elegant drives, cuts, and whip shots through midwicket.
However, since 2022, a steep decline has become evident:
- Average vs. spin turning in (offspinners & left-arm wristspinners):
- 2021 & earlier: 51.72
- Since 2022: 31.80
- Strike rate against spin turning in:
- Before 2021: 88.49
- Since 2022: 67.65
This sharp dip has made Babar a prime target for opposition teams.
🎯 New Zealand Exposed the Weakness Early
Pakistan’s opening game in the Champions Trophy 2025 showcased this struggle. Facing New Zealand’s Michael Bracewell and Glenn Phillips, Babar managed only 22 off 35 balls against bowlers who turned the ball into him. A confident Babar would have attacked the gaps, but instead, well-placed fielders, particularly at short midwicket, restricted his scoring options. He ended with 64 off 90 balls—a knock that arguably cost Pakistan the match.
🇮🇳 India’s Spin Attack is Ready
India will be well-prepared to exploit Babar’s vulnerability. With bowlers like Kuldeep Yadav and Washington Sundar in their squad, they have the right weapons to test his discomfort against spin. Given the likely spin-friendly pitch in Dubai, Babar will need to find solutions quickly.
💬 Can Babar Adapt in Time?
A batter of Babar’s caliber is expected to bounce back, but with his confidence shaken, India holds the edge. Will he return to his spin-dominating best, or will India expose his struggles further? Stay tuned with Cricket Army for all the latest updates!
