Basit pointed out that Babar has consistently failed to step up when the team faces intense pressure.
Former Pakistan cricketer Basit Ali has questioned Babar Azam's status as a batting great following his dismal performance in Pakistan's 194-run defeat against England at Lord's.
Returning to the side as captain after missing the first Test with a finger injury, Babar failed to deliver, scoring just 8 runs in the first innings and 6 runs in the second dig.
Speaking on The Game Plan show, Basit argued that true batting greats excel in difficult, challenging conditions, pointing out that Babar has consistently failed to step up when the team faces intense pressure.
“They didn’t become great players just like that. I’m not even talking about Sachin Tendulkar. I’m talking about my own countrymen," Basit said.
“When you don’t do anything in difficult times, what’s the point? You’re a great player in your fan following. You’re a great player in front of social media," he added.
Basit was particularly critical of Babar’s second innings dismissal at Lord’s as England speedster Jofra Archer bounced out the Pakistan captain, who was left in a tangle while attempting an awkward fending pull shot.
Pointing out a prolonged dry spell, Basit also highlighted that Babar has not scored a Test century since December 2022.
“When will you do it? I’m talking about Babar [Azam]. I’ll take his name. He hasn’t scored a [Test] hundred in four years. When will you do it?" Basit stated.
“It’s a matter of pain. When the entire country’s batting depends on you. At least don’t get out by hitting such a shot," he remarked.
With the massive defeat at Lord’s, Pakistan conceded an unassailable 2-0 lead to England in the three-match series. The visitors will now look to salvage some pride in the third and final Test, slated to begin on September 9 at Edgbaston.