- Joined
- Aug 29, 2023
- Runs
- 41,504
As the dust settles on BBL 15, one question looms large for Pakistan cricket fans: Was it worth it for Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan to participate in this season’s Big Bash League? What was billed as a golden opportunity for Pakistan’s premier batting duo to showcase their class on Australian soil has instead turned into a narrative of missed chances, tactical misfires, and growing criticism.
Babar Azam, despite flashes of brilliance—including a composed 47 off 39 in a 141-run stand with Steve Smith—struggled to consistently impose himself in the high-octane T20 environment. His strike rate and inability to accelerate in key moments drew criticism, especially after a viral moment where he was visibly frustrated with Smith for denying a single during a crucial over. That incident, though minor in isolation, became symbolic of a broader narrative: Babar’s discomfort in adapting to the aggressive tempo of the BBL.
Mohammad Rizwan fared no better. His campaign was punctuated by a controversial retired out decision that sparked fierce debate among pundits and fans alike. Intended as a tactical move, it instead became a lightning rod for criticism, with many questioning his form and intent. His innings lacked fluency, and his strike rate remained among the lowest for top-order batters this season.
Both players, once seen as ambassadors of Pakistan’s T20 prowess, now find themselves at the center of a storm. From social media mockery to questions about their adaptability and value in overseas leagues, the fallout has been swift and unforgiving.
So, was BBL 15 a valuable learning curve or a reputational setback for Babar and Rizwan? Have they done more harm than good to their T20 credentials?
Let’s discuss.
Babar Azam, despite flashes of brilliance—including a composed 47 off 39 in a 141-run stand with Steve Smith—struggled to consistently impose himself in the high-octane T20 environment. His strike rate and inability to accelerate in key moments drew criticism, especially after a viral moment where he was visibly frustrated with Smith for denying a single during a crucial over. That incident, though minor in isolation, became symbolic of a broader narrative: Babar’s discomfort in adapting to the aggressive tempo of the BBL.
Mohammad Rizwan fared no better. His campaign was punctuated by a controversial retired out decision that sparked fierce debate among pundits and fans alike. Intended as a tactical move, it instead became a lightning rod for criticism, with many questioning his form and intent. His innings lacked fluency, and his strike rate remained among the lowest for top-order batters this season.
Both players, once seen as ambassadors of Pakistan’s T20 prowess, now find themselves at the center of a storm. From social media mockery to questions about their adaptability and value in overseas leagues, the fallout has been swift and unforgiving.
So, was BBL 15 a valuable learning curve or a reputational setback for Babar and Rizwan? Have they done more harm than good to their T20 credentials?
Let’s discuss.
