Former Pakistan all-rounder Azhar Mahmood has opened up about Babar Azam’s difficult period after the star batter was dropped from the Test side in 2024, revealing that the intense criticism left him “really down”.
Babar was omitted from Pakistan’s squad for the final two Tests of the home series against England in October 2024 following a prolonged run of poor form. The decision came amid growing scrutiny of the former captain, with criticism coming from former cricketers as well as social media commentators.
Mahmood, who was serving as Pakistan’s assistant coach across formats at the time, said he spent around five months with Babar while the batter was away from the national Test setup.
The pair would regularly play golf during the period while they waited for Pakistan’s next assignment, allowing Mahmood to see the impact of the criticism on Babar.
According to Mahmood, the treatment Babar received had a significant effect on his confidence.
“He was really down because of the way he’s been treated in Pakistan by the ex-players or social media pundits,” Mahmood said.
The former all-rounder argued that Pakistan’s biggest stars should be supported rather than repeatedly subjected to criticism.
“The way they’re treating him. Because we have only one guy who is a superstar and we are pulling him down all the time,” he added.
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Azhar Mahmood, who ended his coaching association with Pakistan in December last year, acknowledged that Babar still has aspects of his game that require improvement.
However, he stressed that criticism should be balanced against the batter’s status as one of Pakistan’s most important players.
“Yes, he has to improve. He has certain things to improve. Everyone does that,” Mahmood said.
The former all-rounder also credited Babar’s leadership experience for helping him mature and develop greater confidence.
Mahmood believes the Pakistan captain must use that confidence to lead from the front and set the tone for the team.
“And I think now he’s matured. When he’s captain, he thinks, you know, like he’s got more power. He’s got more confidence,” he said. “He has to lead from the front. So when he’s captain, you know, like you can see those types of things coming up from him.”
Mahmood, however, suggested that Babar’s confidence can take a hit when he is not in a leadership role, claiming the batter can sometimes withdraw from the spotlight.
“If he’s not captain, nobody gives him respect, which he deserves. And sometimes he goes into his shell,” Mahmood said.
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