New Delhi: Babar Azam is currently facing criticism in relation to Pakistan cricket due to his recent difficulties and failure to achieve significant scores in matches. This has resulted in a prolonged period of underperformance for a player who was once regarded as one of the top batsmen globally. Babars poor performance has continued in the domestic National T20 Cup in Pakistan as he faced 17 balls but scored only 22 runs for the Lahore Blues in their pursuit of 172 runs against Karachi Whites. He has faced notable criticism for his average strike-rate. Umar Akmal Babars cousin and former national teammate discussed the recent difficulties faced by Pakistan batters especially concerning their tendency to lose wickets and struggle against spin bowling. He recalled a time when he provided Babar with guidance to address these issues. I distinctly remember when he was struggling against spinners often getting out around midwicket” said Akmal in a TV interview. “He came to me and said Umar bhai Im having a bit of trouble.” Akmal elaborated on his recommendation for Babar to modify his grip which he believes could create additional scoring opportunities and allow for a delayed response to the delivery. I asked about his grip on the bat and suggested that when facing a spinner he should adjust his grip and keep his eyes on the ball until its halfway to him. From there he could decide whether to cut it or play a shot that wouldnt go flat explained the former Pakistan wicket-keeper bat. Babar has been struggling with his performance not achieving an international century since August 2023 and failing to score any Test centuries over the past three years. He faced significant criticism for his lack of contribution with the bat in recent ICC tournaments including the ICC Champions Trophy where he scored only 87 runs across two innings. This included a lackluster display in a crucial match against India. Babar who has been fluctuating in his performance with the Pakistan team was not included in the T20I squad currently playing in New Zealand where the team is facing a 2-0 deficit in the five-match series. Nevertheless he is set to travel to New Zealand later this month for the upcoming ODI series in an effort to regain his scoring form.