Danish Kaneria criticized Babar Azam for underperforming in the Champions Trophy 2025, particularly highlighting his struggles against strong teams like India and New Zealand. Azam has scored significantly against weaker teams, and his recent performances have contributed to Pakistan’s early elimination from the tournament. Kaneria also questioned the batting depth in the team, particularly the captain’s form.
Danish Kaneria, a former Pakistan spinner, criticized Babar Azam for his lackluster performance during the Champions Trophy 2025, particularly against major teams. Azam posted disappointing scores, getting out for 23 off 26 balls against India after an earlier 64 off 90 against New Zealand, contributing to Pakistan’s early exit from the tournament. Kaneria pointed out that Babar’s runs often come against less formidable opponents like Zimbabwe, noting a lack of intent when facing stronger sides.
Azam’s struggles have been highlighted by his overall statistics, where he has accumulated 241 runs versus India across eight innings, averaging only 30.12 with just one fifty. His form has also led to him losing the number one ODI ranking to Shubman Gill, as his performance since 2023 ranks poorly, being third worst among those with over 1000 runs during that period.
Kaneria also expressed concerns about the contributions of team captain Mohammad Rizwan and the batting depth of the squad. He suggested that the players lack the resolve needed for success in crucial matches, with only sporadic performances from others like Salman Agha and Khushdil Shah. Kaneria forewarned of an impending quick exit for the team from the tournament after their first two losses against New Zealand and India, with only one match left against Bangladesh, after which Pakistan was eliminated.
Danish Kaneria’s sharp critique of Babar Azam highlights the batsman’s ongoing struggles against stronger opponents in the Champions Trophy 2025. Criticism extends not just to Azam, but also to the overall depth and performance of the Pakistani batting lineup, with concerns about key players, including captain Mohammad Rizwan. With Pakistan’s early exit, the team faces scrutiny as they look to regroup for future matches, hoping to end the tournament on a high note against Bangladesh.
Original Source: www.indiatoday.in
