Despite the numbers, Pakistan head coach Mike Hesson isn’t worried and believes a big score is imminent for the captain.
Hesson Confident Babar Will Convert Starts
Speaking to Zainab Abbas and Ramiz Raja, Hesson expressed satisfaction with Babar’s overall approach at the crease. He noted that the star batter looked in rhythm and was determined to turn his starts into substantial scores in the upcoming ODI series against Sri Lanka.
“I’ve been really pleased with the way he played in the Test series. I know he didn’t get big scores, but the way he was moving, striking the ball, and hitting the gaps — he’s really playing nicely at the moment. He’d be as frustrated as anyone, but I don’t mind one or two heading to Rawalpindi in search of big runs. I’m pretty happy with that, and I think Babar will certainly be one of those,” Hesson said, as quoted by India Today.
Hesson also attributed some of Babar’s struggles to unfortunate dismissals and challenging conditions, adding that his technique and decision-making remain solid.
“I think some of it is condition-based. You would’ve seen that first one that almost stayed low and got him just when he looked set. Today, he absorbed a bit of pressure, counterattacked, and then unfortunately got run out. He’s in the kind of form where those starts will soon start converting. For us, it’s more about focusing on batting well, getting into good positions, making the right decisions — and the big runs will come,” Hesson concluded.
Babar Azam has had a sub-par ODI year in 2025, scoring 379 runs at an average of 27.07. With the Sri Lanka series ahead, he will be eager to bounce back and silence his critics with a string of impactful performances.
