‘Nobody has achieved in ODIs what Babar Azam has’ – Imad Wasim blames Aaqib Javed for career destruction
Former Cricketer Imad Wasim Defends Babar Azam’s ODI Role
Former Pakistan cricketer Imad Wasim has come out in defense of Babar Azam amidst criticism regarding his performance in ODIs.
Wasim lashed out at the critics, emphasizing that Babar’s skills in one-day cricket are unmatched and that his achievements in the format are unprecedented in Pakistan.
Recently, Babar Azam has faced scrutiny for his poor form in ODIs, with many questioning his place in the team due to his inability to score big runs.
Before the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, Babar was assigned the new role of opening the innings. However, his performance in the tri-series against South Africa and New Zealand did not live up to expectations.
Despite hitting a fifty against New Zealand, Babar was criticized for his slow batting, which continued in the match against India where he scored low.
Following his lackluster performance in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, Babar was dropped from the T20I squad but remains part of the ODI squad for the upcoming New Zealand tour.
Imad Wasim defended Babar’s changed batting position, highlighting that he was the only player who could bat for 40 overs and that his role was altered. Wasim expressed his disbelief at the criticism calling for Babar’s exclusion from one-day cricket.
Wasim stated, “Nobody has the skills that Babar Azam possesses in one-day cricket. I am specifically talking about one-day cricket. Whatever he has achieved so far, nobody else has managed.”
He further criticized the constant changes in Pakistan’s management, claiming that each new appointment brings about new decisions that do not align with the team’s progress.
Wasim expressed his concerns about Pakistan’s direction, stating, “We are just not moving in the right direction. Eventually, if we continue like this, we might not qualify for future tournaments like the Champions Trophy.”
Imad Wasim’s Support for Babar Azam
Former cricketer Imad Wasim has strongly defended Babar Azam, praising his unmatched skills in one-day cricket and criticizing the critics who have called for his exclusion from the Pakistan team.
Wasim highlighted the unique talent that Babar possesses and emphasized the need to support the young cricketer despite his recent struggles on the field.
Babar Azam’s ODI Performance
Babar Azam has faced scrutiny for his performance in ODIs, especially after his disappointing show in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. Despite being dropped from the T20I squad, Babar still remains part of the ODI squad for the upcoming New Zealand tour.
His ability to adapt to the new role of opening the innings has been questioned, with critics pointing out his slow scoring rate in recent matches.
Imad Wasim Criticizes Management Decisions
Imad Wasim expressed his concerns about the constant changes in Pakistan’s management, suggesting that the team is not moving in the right direction. He called for stability and continuity in decision-making to ensure Pakistan’s success in future tournaments.
Wasim’s support for Babar Azam and his criticism of the management’s decisions have sparked a debate among cricket fans and experts, with many questioning the future of Pakistan’s cricket team.
The Importance of Stability and Support in Cricket
Imad Wasim’s defense of Babar Azam sheds light on the challenges faced by cricketers in a high-pressure environment. In the world of professional sports, performance can fluctuate, and players often go through periods of poor form. It is during these times that support from teammates, coaches, and fans becomes crucial.
By standing up for Babar and highlighting his unique abilities, Wasim not only boosts the young cricketer’s confidence but also sets an example for the importance of loyalty and solidarity within a team. In a sport where individual performances can make or break a game, the support of fellow players can make a significant difference in helping a struggling teammate bounce back.
The Evolution of Babar Azam’s Role
One of the key points of contention surrounding Babar Azam’s performance has been his role as an opener in ODIs. The shift in position from his traditional middle-order spot to the top of the batting order has raised questions about his adaptability and effectiveness in this new role.
While some critics have pointed out Babar’s slow scoring rate, others argue that his ability to anchor the innings and bat for long periods is a valuable asset to the team. The debate over Babar’s optimal batting position highlights the complexities of team strategy and the need for a balance between aggressive stroke play and stability in the middle overs.
The Impact of Management Instability on Team Performance
Imad Wasim’s criticism of the frequent changes in Pakistan’s cricket management reflects a common issue faced by many sports teams around the world. Instability at the top can lead to inconsistent decision-making, lack of clear direction, and overall disarray within the team.
For a team to succeed, it is essential to have a stable leadership structure that provides continuity and a long-term vision for the team’s development. Without this stability, players may struggle to perform at their best, and the team as a whole may fail to achieve its full potential.
The Future of Pakistan Cricket
As Pakistan gears up for the upcoming New Zealand tour and looks ahead to future tournaments, the discussions sparked by Imad Wasim’s comments raise important questions about the team’s direction. With talented players like Babar Azam in the lineup, the potential for success is certainly there.
However, to capitalize on this potential, Pakistan must address issues of stability, support for players, and strategic decision-making. By fostering a culture of unity, resilience, and clear leadership, Pakistan cricket can strive for excellence and compete at the highest levels of the sport.
Ultimately, the success of the team will depend not only on the individual performances of players like Babar Azam but also on the collective efforts of the entire squad and the support they receive from fans, coaches, and administrators.


