Babar Azam Tipped to Rediscover His Best Form Ahead of T20 World Cup 2026

Babar Azam has been one of Pakistan’s most dependable batters across formats, but recent struggles have raised eyebrows among cricket fans worldwide. With the T20 World Cup 2026 just around the corner, questions about his form have become louder. However, Australia’s Josh Philippe, who is currently sharing the dressing room with Babar at Sydney Sixers in the Big Bash League, believes the Pakistani stalwart will return to his devastating best when it matters most.

Babar’s recent performances have been far from his usual standards. Since the 2024 T20 World Cup held in the USA and West Indies, he has managed only two half-centuries in T20 Internationals. This alarming dip has caused him to slide down the ICC T20I rankings from the top spot to 31st, a position that doesn’t reflect his true capabilities. For a player of his caliber, this downturn is concerning, especially with less than two months remaining before the mega tournament kicks off in India and Sri Lanka.

Babar’s Struggles in the Big Bash League

Currently playing for Sydney Sixers in Australia’s premier domestic T20 competition, Babar has found the going tough on bouncy Australian pitches. His first two innings for the Sixers yielded single-digit scores, adding to the growing narrative around his form slump. The adjustment to Australian conditions, known for their pace and bounce, has clearly been challenging for the right-hander.

Despite these early setbacks, Philippe remains confident that Babar will soon find his rhythm. Speaking about his teammate, Philippe praised the Pakistani star’s credentials and expressed no doubt about his ability to turn things around.

“He’s a world-class player. It’s probably challenging coming to Australia and these bouncy surfaces. But a couple of games under the belt, a few more sessions, he’ll be absolutely fine. His record is outstanding. I have no doubt he’ll be in the runs next game,” Philippe said.

Why Form Matters Heading Into the T20 World Cup

Pakistan will be among the qualified teams for the T20 World Cup 2026, and Babar’s form will be crucial to their campaign. As one of the most experienced players in the squad, his role extends beyond just scoring runs. He provides stability at the top of the order and sets the tone for Pakistan’s innings.

His recent struggles have coincided with Pakistan’s inconsistent performances in white-ball cricket. The team has shown flashes of brilliance but has lacked the consistency needed to challenge the best sides. Babar rediscovering his touch could be the catalyst Pakistan needs to build momentum heading into the tournament.

Babar Azam’s T20I Record

Despite his recent form, Babar’s overall T20I record speaks volumes about his class. He has been a consistent run-scorer for Pakistan and has the ability to anchor innings while also accelerating when needed.

Philippe’s Own World Cup Ambitions

While backing Babar to come good, Philippe is also focused on his own ambitions. The 28-year-old Australian keeper-batter is pushing for a spot in Australia’s squad for the upcoming World Cup. He has made a solid start to the Big Bash season, scoring 46 in the Sixers’ recent clash against Adelaide Strikers, and has shown good form in recent white-ball series against India.

Philippe is happy to bat at No.3 for the Sixers, allowing Babar to open the innings and find his groove. This team-first approach reflects his maturity and understanding of the game.

“I’m happy to play whatever role is required. I’m looking forward to hopefully putting on a big partnership with him and learning from him out in the middle. He’s a really nice guy and we’re certainly enjoying having him around,” Philippe added.

What Needs to Change for Babar?

For Babar to regain his best form, he needs to spend more time at the crease and adjust to different conditions. The Big Bash League provides an ideal platform for him to do just that. Playing against quality bowlers on challenging pitches will help him fine-tune his technique and timing.

Here are some key areas Babar should focus on:

• Adapting to Pace and Bounce: Australian pitches demand quick footwork and decisive shot selection. Spending more time in the middle will help him adjust.
• Rotating Strike Consistently: Babar’s strength lies in accumulating runs through smart cricket. Getting back to rotating the strike will ease pressure.
• Building Partnerships: Working with teammates like Philippe at the Sixers will help him develop match awareness and confidence.
• Mental Resilience: Form slumps can affect confidence. Staying mentally strong and trusting his ability will be crucial.

Pakistan’s Preparations for the T20 World Cup

Pakistan’s road to the T20 World Cup 2026 schedule will be closely watched by fans. The team has talented individuals but needs them firing collectively. Babar’s return to form would provide a massive boost to their chances.

The tournament will be co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka, venues where Babar has traditionally performed well. Subcontinental conditions often suit his technique and shot selection, which could work in his favor.

Pakistan’s Key Players to Watch

Can Babar Silence the Critics?

History has shown that great players often respond to adversity with match-winning performances. Babar has done it before and has the talent to do it again. His experience, technique, and mental toughness make him capable of overcoming this rough patch.

Philippe’s backing carries weight because he has seen Babar up close in training and matches. The Australian’s confidence in his teammate reflects the respect Babar commands among his peers despite recent struggles.

With the T20 World Cup just weeks away, all eyes will be on Babar Azam. Will he use the Big Bash League as a launchpad to rediscover his best form? Can he silence the critics and lead Pakistan’s charge in the tournament? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: writing off a player of Babar’s caliber would be a mistake.

FAQs

Q1: Why is Babar Azam struggling with form recently?
Babar has scored only two T20I half-centuries since mid-2024 and is adjusting to challenging Australian pitches in the Big Bash League.

Q2: What is Babar Azam’s current ICC T20I ranking?
He has dropped to 31st in the ICC T20I rankings, a significant fall from his previous No.1 position.

Q3: When does the T20 World Cup 2026 start?
The tournament is scheduled to begin in early 2026 in India and Sri Lanka, with exact dates available on official schedules.

Q4: Who is backing Babar Azam to find form?
Josh Philippe, his Sydney Sixers teammate and Australian international, has publicly backed Babar to bounce back soon.

Q5: How important is Babar Azam for Pakistan’s T20 World Cup campaign?
Extremely important. As a top-order anchor and experienced campaigner, his form will significantly impact Pakistan’s chances.

Q6: What can help Babar regain his form?
More match practice, adapting to different pitch conditions, and building confidence through consistent performances in the Big Bash League.