In a bold yet supportive move, Umar Akmal has called on Babar Azam to step away from the Peshawar Zalmi captaincy in order to focus solely on Babar Azam’s batting form, which has recently come under fire. The former Pakistan Test cricketer made the suggestion during a video on his YouTube channel, urging the prolific batter to take a mental and physical break to regain his lost rhythm.
Public Support, Private Advice
Akmal voiced strong support for Babar, defending him against critics who have questioned his value to the national side. He reminded fans of Babar’s stellar contributions over the years and asked for patience during this lean patch.
“Yes, he’s going through a tough time, but that doesn’t take away his class,” Akmal said. “Form is temporary, but class is permanent. He carried the team on his shoulders for five years.”
Time Off Could Be the Answer
To help Babar reset, Akmal recommended a complete two-month break from all cricket formats. He urged Babar to approach PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi, the chief selector, and the current national captain to formally request the time off.
“Take two months away from cricket — just train, rest, and spend time with family,” Akmal suggested. “It worked for Virat Kohli. He took a step back, and came back stronger. Babar can do the same.”
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Let Go of the Leadership Burden
In addition to the suggested break, Akmal advised Babar to relinquish his leadership role with Peshawar Zalmi. He argued that the pressures of captaincy have compounded Babar’s struggles at the crease.
“He should step down as Zalmi captain too, just like PCB removed him from the national captaincy,” Akmal said. “Leadership comes with extra baggage. Right now, he needs to bat freely and find joy in his game again.”
Akmal pointed out that leadership, while honorable, also brings added expectations and media scrutiny, which can weigh heavily on a player already battling form issues.
Let Babar Just Be a Batsman
According to Akmal, the key to reviving Babar’s batting lies in allowing him to play without the responsibilities of leading a side. He used Sahibzada Farhan’s recent performances as an example of what can happen when players are placed in comfortable roles.
“Farhan is thriving because he’s in a role that suits him,” Akmal observed. “The same applies to Babar. Let him just focus on batting — no pressure, no expectations. That’s when you’ll see the best of him.”
A Thoughtful Suggestion, Not a Criticism
Akmal’s remarks were not intended to criticize Babar but to offer a constructive path forward. He insisted that stepping back is not a sign of weakness, but a smart, necessary step in any athlete’s career.
The message is clear: Babar Azam needs space to breathe, reset, and return stronger — not just as a leader, but as one of Pakistan’s finest batters.
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