Former Australia pacer Brad Hogg has pointed out an intriguing fact that highlights a striking contrast between the slump of two highly acclaimed batsmen, Virat Kohli and Babar Azam. Hogg shed light on the vastly different repercussions that Kohli and Babar faced during their respective lean phases with their teams.
Hogg stated that when Kohli was going through a tough period, the Indian cricket team still managed to emerge as the second-best side in terms of the number of victories. This notable achievement by the team speaks volumes about the depth and resilience of the Indian squad.
In stark contrast, Babar Azam's poor form has coincided with the struggling fortunes of the Pakistan cricket team. The team's dismal performance during this period is evident in their inability to register wins in Tests, both at home and on foreign soil. This slump has sparked widespread concern and intense scrutiny of the team's dynamics and overall strategy.
Hogg's observation highlights the clear difference between the performances of the two teams during their respective stars' lean phases. While the Indian team demonstrated remarkable consistency and the ability to bounce back, the Pakistan team has struggled to find its footing.
It is well-known that Kohli, a former Indian captain, experienced a slump in his form in 2022. During this period, he struggled to score runs and was unable to replicate his usual form, which led to growing concerns about his place in the team. However, despite his struggles, the Indian team managed to perform relatively well.
In contrast, Babar Azam, the current Pakistani captain, has faced intense criticism and scrutiny due to his recent slump in form. The pressure on him has mounted significantly, especially considering his dual role as captain and a leading batsman. As a result, the Pakistan cricket team has faced immense expectations to turn their fortunes around and secure wins.
The differing performances of the two teams serve as a testament to the varying levels of strength and resilience within their respective squads. While the Indian team's overall cohesion and performance saved the day during Kohli's lean phase, the Pakistan team's struggles alongside Babar's form have reflected the pressing issues that the team needs to address.
Hogg's comments will undoubtedly spark a wide-ranging debate about the differing approach of the two teams in navigating through their stars' tough phases. As the cricket world watches with bated breath, it will be interesting to see how the Pakistan cricket team will fare in the days to come.