Ponting Urges Babar Azam to Emulate Kohli and Take a Break

In the world of cricket, players often face periods of struggle, and it is during these times that advice from seasoned professionals can prove invaluable. Recently, former Australian captain Ricky Ponting shared his thoughts on the current form of Pakistan's star batsman, Babar Azam. Ponting suggested that Babar should consider taking a break from the game, similar to what India’s Virat Kohli did in previous years, to regain his form and confidence.

Babar Azam, who has been a key player for Pakistan, has faced challenges in his Test performances, averaging just 20.7 since 2023. This decline in form has raised concerns among fans and experts alike. Following a series of disappointing outings, Babar was rested from the last two matches of a three-match Test series against England, where Pakistan managed to secure a 2-1 victory despite losing the first Test by a significant margin.

Interestingly, while Babar has struggled in Test cricket, he continues to shine in One Day Internationals (ODIs), currently holding the top position in the ODI rankings. His recent performance, including a solid knock of 37 runs against Australia, showcases his potential. However, Ponting emphasized the need for Babar to focus on his Test game, stating, "The biggest challenge is how they get Babar back into their side." He believes that finding a way to reintegrate Babar into the Test team is crucial for both the player and the national side.

Ponting pointed out that Kohli's break from the game allowed him to recharge and return with renewed vigor. He remarked, "Sometimes — and I think Virat was on record saying this — that little bit of a break that he had, he took himself away from the game for a while to freshen up and sort out some things that he needed to sort out." This approach could be beneficial for Babar as well, allowing him to step back, reflect, and return to the game with a fresh mindset.

The advice from Ricky Ponting serves as a reminder that even the best players can face tough times. Taking a break might seem counterintuitive, but it can often lead to a much-needed reset. For Babar Azam, stepping away from the pressures of the game could be the key to unlocking his full potential once again. As fans, we can only hope to see him back at his best, contributing significantly to Pakistan's cricketing success in the future.