New Delhi, September 15 (Daily Kiran) : Pakistan’s Test cricket captain, Babar Azam, is making a return to domestic cricket as he seeks to break free from a prolonged slump in form. His recent performances in Tests, ODIs, and T20s have left much to be desired, particularly during a recent Test series in England where he struggled to shine.
In a bid to regain his touch, Azam will participate in the ongoing Presidents Trophy Grade 1 first-class tournament, representing the Oil and Gas Development Company Limited (OGDCL). This marks his first appearance in domestic red-ball cricket since 2019. The organization has signed him on as a guest player.
According to OGDCL’s sports head, Farah, Azam is scheduled to return to Pakistan from the UK on September 16 and will join the OGDCL squad the following day. His cricket kit has already been ordered, and upon his arrival, he will decide whether to play in the second or third match.
Azam has faced criticism for his extended absence from domestic red-ball cricket. His last Test century came in December 2022 when he scored 161 runs against New Zealand in Karachi.
In addition to Azam, left-arm fast bowler Shaheen Shah Afridi and batsman Salman Ali Agha, who are also out of the Test team, will be playing first-class cricket. Afridi is set to play for KRL, while Agha, who recently scored a triple century, will represent Kingsmen Academy.
The Pakistan team has been struggling in the Test format, having lost a three-match series against England 3-0. Currently, they sit at the bottom of the World Test Championship table.
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