Babar Azam’s role in Pakistan’s T20I team during the T20 World Cup 2026 is now focused on the middle order, acting as a safety net. Learn how his position changed, what the coach said, and what it means for Pakistan’s strategy.
Introduction
In the T20 World Cup 2026, Babar Azam is no longer Pakistan’s top-order anchor. Instead, he plays a new role in the middle order, acting as a safety net if the team needs stability. This change surprised many fans, but it’s part of a new plan by the team’s coach Mike Hesson.
Why Babar Moved to the Middle Order
Coach Mike Hesson said Babar’s strike rate in the powerplay was too low. In past T20 World Cups, Babar scored slowly during the first six overs. His strike rate was below 100, which made it hard for Pakistan to take early control. Babar Azam’s Role in Pakistan’s T20I Team.
| Reason for Change | Details |
|---|---|
| Low Powerplay Strike Rate | Less than 100 in T20 World Cups |
| Slow Against Spin | Struggles to score quickly vs spinners |
| Team Strategy Shift | Focus on fast starts and aggressive play |
Coach’s Statement
Coach Hesson said:
“Babar’s well aware that his strike rate in the powerplay is less than 100 in T20 World Cups. That’s not a role we think we need here. We think he’s a fine player through the middle if required.”
This is the first time Pakistan’s management openly talked about Babar’s slow starts.
Babar’s Current Role
| Role Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Middle-Order Anchor | Comes in if early wickets fall |
| Spin Stabilizer | Plays carefully against spin bowling |
| Experience Buffer | Adds calmness during tense moments |
He is no longer the first-choice opener. Instead, younger players are given the chance to attack early.
Match Impact
In recent games, Babar didn’t bat at all in one match — a first in his career. This shows how his role is now situational, not guaranteed. Babar Azam’s Role in Pakistan’s T20I Team.
| Match Situation | Babar’s Role |
|---|---|
| Early wickets lost | Comes in to stabilize innings |
| Strong start by openers | May not be needed to bat |
| Spin-heavy middle overs | Used to handle tricky bowlers |
Read more; Jansen’s Not-Quite Knuckle Ball – South Africa’s Pace-Off Masterclass
Fan Reactions
- Some fans feel Babar is being sidelined unfairly.
- Others believe the team needs faster scoring at the top.
- Many still trust Babar’s experience in tough situations.
- Babar Azam’s Role in Pakistan’s T20I Team.
FAQs
Is Babar Azam still in Pakistan’s T20I team? Yes, but he now plays in the middle order, not as an opener.
Why was Babar moved from the top order? His strike rate in powerplay overs was too low for modern T20 needs. Babar Azam’s Role in Pakistan’s T20I Team.
What is Babar’s role now? He acts as a middle-order anchor, helping the team if early wickets fall.
Did Babar bat in the last match? No, he was in the playing XI but didn’t get to bat.
Conclusion
Babar Azam’s role in Pakistan’s T20I team has changed in the 2026 World Cup. He is now a middle-order safety net, used when the team needs calm and control. While his days as a top-order star may be behind him, his experience still matters. Pakistan’s new strategy is bold, and Babar’s role is now more flexible than ever.
