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Former Pakistan fast bowler Abdur Rauf has voiced sharp criticism of star batter Babar Azam, following his inconsistent run in the ongoing Big Bash League (BBL) 15.
Rauf, who represented Pakistan in three Tests, four ODIs, and a T20I, argued that Babar’s recent struggles indicate a loss of key batting fundamentals, warning that continuing in short-format leagues could further strain the right-hander’s game.
“Babar has lost a lot of very important credentials of batting,” Rauf wrote on X (formerly Twitter).
“This is not the platform to mend your mistakes; you are just building more pressure on yourself. Your advisors are piece of s***. If you continue like this, how long will you survive?”
The criticism comes after Babar’s BBL campaign began on a challenging note, with single-digit scores in three of his four appearances for Sydney Sixers.
The lone bright spot was his 58-run innings against Sydney Thunder last week.
Abdur Rauf urged Babar to shift focus to longer formats to refine his technique and regain confidence.
“Long format, county cricket or domestic first-class cricket is the only platform for you to work on your technique, spend most of the time on the pitch, play long innings, [and] then you will manage to improve your faults. It will not only relax your mind but also relieve stress from your body,” Rauf advised.
He also questioned Babar’s heavy involvement in franchise leagues, highlighting the unnecessary pressure they bring.
“Why are you putting more pressure on yourself by playing short formats and these leagues? You have enough money to pass your life comfortably, then why are you running after it and putting more stress on your mind and body that will lead you to ruin your career in the end?” Rauf added.
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