Pakistan began their T20I tri-series campaign with an unexpected setback as Babar Azam recorded another unwanted milestone. The star batter walked out to chase at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium with high expectations. However, he returned to the dugout only three balls later. Brad Evans trapped him on the crease with a sharp delivery that struck his back pad and ended his innings.
The early dismissal halted Babar’s recent momentum and added a record he never hoped to claim. The three-ball duck became his ninth in T20Is. This placed him second on Pakistan’s list of most ducks in the format, behind only Umar Akmal and Saim Ayub.
Record Highlights Unusual Phase in Babar’s Career
For a batter celebrated for consistency, this statistic marks an unwelcome chapter. His overall T20I journey has been turbulent over the past year. He led Pakistan in three T20 World Cup campaigns before losing his place after the away series in South Africa last December. That absence extended to the Asia Cup 2025, where selectors preferred younger players.
His recall for the recent home series against South Africa offered a chance to rebuild his form. He delivered promising signs, yet the tri-series opener showed he has more work ahead.
Pakistan Hopes for Quick Recovery in Form
Pakistan now faces Zimbabwe and Sri Lanka in the remaining fixtures. The team hopes Babar regains rhythm quickly as the squad prepares for final selections ahead of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup next year. His experience remains vital as Pakistan searches for stability in the top order.
For now, Rawalpindi will remember the night Babar Azam’s name moved higher on a list no batter wants. The moment served as a reminder that even elite players face periods of struggle, and recovery often arrives only after enduring difficult spells.
