Salman Butt delivers honest verdict as Babar Azam’s form crisis compared to Virat Kohli’s slump

Pakistan’s white-ball captain Babar Azam’s current struggle with form has set the stage for a high-stakes drama in the upcoming two-match Test series against Bangladesh, starting on August 21 in Rawalpindi.

Babar is presently under the spotlight as he battles through a significant dry spell. Reacting to Babar’s form, the former Pakistan captain Salman Butt said that the stylish right-hander, who is known for his explosive batting and consistent run-scoring, is now facing mounting pressure, and the upcoming Test series against Bangladesh will be very crucial for him.

Salman Butt warns of pressure on Babar Azam as Pakistan set to face Bangladesh in crucial Test series

Azam's recent performances both as a batter and captain have been disappointing. His last century was against Nepal in August 2023, raising eyebrows and fueling speculation about his future. His recent dry spell has not only affected his individual stats but has also cast a shadow over his white-ball captaincy.

Many advised Babar to leave Pakistan’s captaincy and solely focus on his batting, as he has the potential and talent to become one of the modern-era legends. Additionally, the Men in Green have been struggling to deliver results, and even he also failed to deliver big innings, which has created a perfect storm of scrutiny.

Despite his proven ability to dominate across the formats, Babar’s recent lack of impactful scores has intensified the pressure, according to the former Pakistani skipper. However, Butt is confident that Azam will rise above this challenging phase and reclaim his position as one of the best batters in the world.

There is definitely pressure on Babar: Butt

The cricket pundit has also admitted that Babar is facing immense pressure to deliver against Bangladesh in the home Tests but mentioned that he has the ability to return to his dominant form and write the next chapter of his illustrious career, having delivered excellent performances in the past.

Salman Butt said on his YouTube channel: “Yes, absolutely. Look, personally, as a player who has been consistently scoring runs, and considering that he hasn't had a big innings in a while, and with questions around his captaincy, there is definitely pressure on him. But who better to handle pressure than him? This player has delivered such excellent performances, so he knows well how to make a comeback into form.”

Salman Butt dismisses comparison between Babar Azam and Virat Kohli amidst Pakistan skipper's form crisis

During the discussion, the Pakistani journalist mentioned that even if you know what to do when you’re out of form or your mindset is disturbed, things become challenging. It doesn’t matter who you are. He added that they saw this happen with even Virat Kohli as well.

However, Butt was quick to correct the Pakistani journalist that there can be no comparison between Babar and Kohli. Later, the journalist clarified that there was no intention of comparing them, saying he was just using the example to show that even great players can face form issues.

Butt agreed with his perspective. Notably, Kohli struggled for runs for over two years before making a remarkable comeback to the form across the three formats of the game. However, the Indian batting maestro has yet again hit the slump, failing to score big in the T20 World Cup 2024 and then the recent ODI series against Sri Lanka.