The Babar Azam Question: Is Pakistan Making a Mistake by Using Him at No. 4? Coach Mike Hesson Responds

Pakistan cricket continues to face scrutiny over Babar Azam’s role in the T20 setup, a debate that has persisted since his time as captain. The discussion has intensified during the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, where questions about his strike rate and suitability in the modern T20 format have resurfaced. Although Babar remains the leading run-scorer in men’s T20Is, his approach has been criticized, and his performances in the tournament have added to the conversation. So far, he has scored 15 against the Netherlands, 46 against the USA, and 5 against India, and he did not get a chance to bat against Namibia despite Pakistan pushing for a big total.

Head coach Mike Hesson addressed questions about Babar’s batting position, including whether placing him at No. 4 could be considered risky. Speaking ahead of Pakistan’s Super 8 clash against New Zealand in Colombo, Hesson said team requirements dictate Babar’s role. He acknowledged that Babar’s strike rate in the powerplay during T20 World Cups has been under 100, suggesting that opening may not be the best fit in this context. Instead, the team views him as a strong middle-order option, particularly when stability is needed or once he has time to settle in and accelerate, as seen in the match against the USA.

Hesson also explained why Babar did not bat against Namibia. When Pakistan reached 107/2 in the 13th over, the team opted for players better suited to late-innings acceleration. According to Hesson, Babar was brought back into the side after the Asia Cup to provide stability through the middle overs. However, in that particular scenario, other players were considered more effective for finishing. Hesson emphasized that Babar understands his strengths and accepts that certain match situations may call for different skill sets.

The coach was further questioned about leaving out experienced players Fakhar Zaman and Shaheen Shah Afridi in the must-win game against Namibia. Left-arm pacer Salman Mirza replaced Shaheen and impressed with his performance. Hesson noted that Mirza had been unlucky not to feature earlier and highlighted his strong record since debuting. He also pointed out that conditions have limited Pakistan to playing two seamers, who often do not complete their full quota of overs.

As for Fakhar, Hesson dismissed concerns about the top order being dominated by right-handers. He mentioned that players like Mohammad Nawaz and Faheem Ashraf provide left-handed options, while Fakhar remains available if conditions demand his strengths, particularly against left-arm spin. Hesson underlined the flexibility within the squad to adapt based on match situations.