New Delhi: The Pakistan cricket team is currently touring New Zealand, where they are set to play a five-match T20 series followed by a three-match ODI series starting on March 29. Amid the tour, former captain Babar Azam has once again found himself at the center of social media trolling after being dismissed by a net bowler during a practice session.
Babar Azam LBW to Net Bowler in Practice Session
A video of Babar Azam getting out to a net bowler has gone viral. During the training session, he attempted a leg-side shot against an off-spinner but missed the ball completely. The umpire adjudged him LBW, leaving Babar visibly surprised by the decision. The footage has sparked reactions from cricket fans, with some criticizing his recent form.
Babar Azam’s Struggles with Form
Babar Azam’s performance across formats has been underwhelming in recent months. In 2025, he has played six ODIs so far, managing to score only 149 runs with a solitary fifty. His Test form hasn’t been promising either, as he has accumulated just 184 runs in six innings, averaging a modest 30.67. His struggle with consistency has raised concerns about his role in Pakistan’s future plans.
Babar Azam Dropped from T20 Squad for New Zealand Tour
Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has taken a bold step by excluding Babar Azam from the T20 squad for the New Zealand series. As part of its preparations for the 2026 T20 World Cup, PCB decided to test a new-look team under the leadership of Agha Salman. The omission of senior players like Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan shocked fans and experts alike.
The ongoing T20 series has been competitive, with New Zealand winning the first two matches and Pakistan bouncing back in the third, thanks to Hasan Nawaz’s stunning century (105 runs). With two games left, Pakistan is trailing 1-2 in the series.
Babar Azam getting dismissed by a net bowler. pic.twitter.com/APgu99IAFS
— M (@anngrypakiistan) March 21, 2025
Pakistan vs. New Zealand ODI Series Schedule
After the T20 series, Pakistan will face New Zealand in a three-match ODI series. The schedule is as follows:
1st ODI: March 29 – Napier
2nd ODI: April 2
3rd ODI: April 5
With the ODI series approaching, all eyes will be on Babar Azam as he looks to regain his lost form and prove his critics wrong.