Former Pakistan captain Babar Azam's prolonged lean patch in Test cricket continued on Thursday, October 10, during Pakistan's second innings of the ongoing first Test against England at the Multan Cricket Stadium. Babar, expected to anchor Pakistan’s challenging chase, was dismissed for just 5 runs off 15 balls, further exacerbating Pakistan’s troubles.

The right-hander has been struggling with his form in the longest format, averaging under 21 in nine Tests since the start of last year, with his highest score being a mere 41. His early dismissal left Pakistan in a precarious position, earlier on day 4 England had declared their innings at a massive 823/7, securing a commanding lead of 267 runs on Day 4.

Babar’s latest failure came when he edged a delivery from England’s Gus Atkinson to wicketkeeper Jamie Smith, putting Pakistan on the brink of defeat.

Former Pakistan cricketer Basit Ali has been vocal about Babar’s recent struggles and believes the star batter needs to be rested or possibly dropped from the squad.

"Babar needs rest. Babar should say that I need to rest. It has been 18 innings since he has performed. If some other player was playing, then he would be out of the squad after three games, like Fawad Alam. This is the bitter truth. Babar should reduce his stance. It is a lot now. The whole world is laughing. Is this how to play?" said Basit Ali, as quoted by Times of India.

The former cricketer also questioned Pakistan’s team selection and batting order, specifically regarding Shan Masood. Basit felt that Masood, who has been playing at number three, should return to his original role as an opener : 

"I have been saying that Shan is an opener, he should open. But he played at number three. Now, what will happen? Who will you drop? He should play at his number. He doesn't even know captaincy. What has happened to this cricket team? It is shameful," Basit Ali further expressed