Babar Azam’s poor form continued as Pakistan’s star batter was dismissed for a disappointing duck in the first T20I of their series against South Africa on December 10, 2024. Babar faced just four balls before being bowled out by Kwena Maphaka, a rising 18-year-old talent from South Africa. His dismissal came in the second over of Pakistan’s innings, as he edged a delivery to deep third man, leaving fans and critics alike stunned.
This failure is another blow for Babar, who has been under pressure after being removed from Pakistan’s Test captaincy earlier this year following a dismal performance against England. Despite a recent return to T20Is, where he struggled in the series against Australia, this latest setback has sparked reactions on social media, with many expressing frustration over his inability to capitalize on favorable batting conditions.
Pakistan’s innings, which followed Babar’s early departure, were further pressured by the loss of quick wickets. While Mohammad Rizwan’s patient knock of 74 runs from 62 balls kept the chase alive, the middle order, unable to recover from the early collapse, fell short of the target set by South Africa. Rizwan’s struggle to accelerate, combined with the timely breakthroughs from South Africa’s bowlers, ultimately left Pakistan with too much to do in the final overs.
Babar’s ongoing struggles with the bat have led to growing concerns over his form as Pakistan heads into the next games of the series. His inability to make an impact in key moments, like in the first T20I, has ignited debate among fans and experts regarding his role in the team and the pressures of captaincy, which he had relinquished earlier in the year. With Pakistan set to face South Africa in the remaining two T20I matches, all eyes will be on Babar to see if he can turn his fortunes around and silence his critics.