Pakistan head coach Mike Hesson has defended the decision to hold back Babar Azam during the crucial group-stage match against Namibia in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026. The move came amid growing questions about Babar’s strike rate in the tournament.
Babar, Pakistan’s star batter, scored 66 runs in three innings at a strike rate of 115.78. Despite criticism following his seven-ball five against India in a heavy 61-run defeat, he remained in the squad. However, in the Namibia match, Babar did not bat. Instead, Khawaja Nafay and all-rounder Shadab Khan were promoted in the batting order ahead of him.
The decision sparked debate among fans and analysts about Babar Azam’s batting role. Addressing the media before Pakistan’s Super Eights match against New Zealand at the R Premadasa Stadium, Hesson explained that match circumstances influenced the choice.
“At that point, Babar Azam is not the best person to come in,” Hesson said. He added that Pakistan were well placed at 107 for two in the 13th over, and opener Sahibzada Farhan was at the crease. “We have other options who can perform that role towards the end of the innings.”
Hesson noted that Babar understood the reasoning. “He knows his skill set and that sometimes other players can fulfill a specific role more efficiently,” he said.
The coach also explained why Babar continues to bat at number four rather than his preferred opening spot. Pakistan’s earlier disappointment at the ICC Men’s T20 Asia Cup 2026 influenced this decision. “Babar’s strike rate in the powerplay is under 100 this World Cup, and that’s not the role we require,” Hesson clarified.
Pakistan starts their Super Eights campaign on Saturday, with discussions continuing on the best way to use their most consistent batter in high-pressure matches. The team management remains confident in Babar’s contribution to their middle-order strength.
