Legendary Pakistan batsman Zaheer Abbas has weighed in on the ongoing struggles of former captain Babar Azam, suggesting that the star batter may either be grappling with ego issues or is simply too hesitant to reach out to former greats for help. In a pointed yet sincere remark, Zaheer compared Babar’s current form slump to a moment in history when senior players openly sought advice to overcome challenges, emphasizing the value of learning from others.
Babar Azam has been under the scanner recently due to a string of underwhelming performances with the bat. Once hailed as the backbone of Pakistan’s batting lineup, his recent outings have lacked the fluency, composure, and authority that characterized his early years. His struggles have raised concerns not just among fans but also within cricketing circles, prompting some former players to offer advice, and others to critique his approach.
Zaheer Abbas, known for his elegance on the field and his forthright opinions off it, offered a perspective grounded in experience and cricketing wisdom. He recalled how former Pakistan captain Younis Khan, ahead of the 2016 England tour, had turned to Indian great Mohammad Azharuddin for advice. That gesture of humility and willingness to learn culminated in Younis scoring a monumental double century in a crucial Test match at The Oval — a match-winning effort that helped Pakistan level the series.
The message from Zaheer was clear: there is no shame in asking for guidance, no matter how established one might be. “I think either Babar has an ego issue or is too shy to seek advice from his seniors in overcoming his current situation. In 2016 Younis Khan spoke to Mohammad Azharuddin and went on to score a double hundred in England,” he stated. Coming from someone of Zaheer’s stature, this wasn’t just criticism — it was a call for self-reflection and humility.
Zaheer further elaborated that cricket, especially at the highest level, is a constant learning process. He emphasized that even the greatest players have had to adapt, evolve, and accept help at various points in their careers. Whether it’s a small technical flaw or a mental block, the insights of those who’ve played in different eras and under varying conditions can be invaluable.
Babar’s silence during this tough period has been noticeable. While some interpret it as composure, others like Zaheer view it as a missed opportunity. There are many former Pakistani batsmen — including Zaheer himself — who have offered to help, but Babar’s reluctance to engage with them has raised eyebrows.
The former ICC Hall of Famer also underscored the need for Pakistan’s cricketing culture to embrace mentorship more actively. “There is no embarrassment in seeking advice. It’s a sign of strength, not weakness,” he said.
With the T20 World Cup fast approaching and Babar expected to play a crucial role in Pakistan’s campaign, Zaheer’s comments come at a pivotal moment. Whether Babar chooses to respond or reflect quietly remains to be seen, but one thing is certain — the cricketing world is watching closely, hoping for the return of the elegant and fearless batsman who once dominated attacks with ease.
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