If Babar Azam adds few more attacking options to his game, his strike rate will improve: Herschelle Gibbs

Even though Babar Azam is considered one of the pioneers of the game, his strike rate in T20 cricket has always been a matter of discussion. Given the T20 World Cup coming soon, former South African international Herschelle Gibbs shared his piece of advice for the 27-year-old.

Gibbs, who himself was a destructive player, has asked Babar to add variation in his shots and believes that if the Pakistan captain can do that, he will be more effective in the shortest format of the game. 

“If Babar adds one or two more attacking options to his game his strike rate will improve and be even more effective,” said the 48-year-old in a tweet.

Babar’s form has been poor in the recent past as he scored just 68 runs in the six matches in Asia Cup 2022. Meanwhile, ahead of the T20 World Cup, Pakistan will be playing seven T20Is against England, which can be a chance for Babar to regain his form.

I understand reservation about their strike rate but they will improve: PCB Chief on Babar-Rizwan pair

Meanwhile, despite being the leading run-scorer of the tournament, Mohammad Rizwan's strike rate has also been in question while his innings in the finals of the Asia Cup was heavily criticised. After Pakistan announced their squad for the T20 World Cup, Pakistan's chief selector was asked the reason for not including a backup opener and highlighted the contribution of Babar and Rizwan to the team.

“Both of them have brought us enough success. You are talking about breaking up the best opening pair in world cricket. They are our strongest point, and the numbers show they have scored runs with great consistency. I understand reservations about their strike rate, but you will see improvements in it,” Mohammad Wasim, the chief selector of PCB was quoted as saying.

The duo will once again be seen in action during England’s tour of Pakistan, starting September 20 (Tuesday). Pakistan will fly down to New Zealand to compete in a tri-series against Bangladesh and the host nation after that.