Updated 15 October 2024 at 20:38 IST
Pakistan 's struggling star Babar Azam has hit rock bottom, with a dismal run of form that's seen him fail to score a single fifty in his last 18 innings for the national team. The former Test captain's slump has led to his shocking exclusion from Pakistan's squad for the remaining two matches against England, alongside fellow big names Shaheen Shah Afridi and Naseem Shah.
However, debutant Kamran Ghulam has seized the opportunity to shine, justifying his selection with a stellar performance in the second match, scoring a century on debut. Ghulam's impressive display has somewhat softened the blow of Babar's absence, but concerns about the latter's form and future in the team linger.
Kamran Ghulam has made a stunning entry into Test cricket, scoring a century on debut and leading Pakistan to a strong start in the second Test against England in Multan. Ghulam's impressive performance has raised questions about the future of Babar Azam , who was dropped by the PCB due to his recent struggles in red-ball cricket.
Kamran Ghulam's century was a testament to his patience and determination, as he navigated a tricky wicket and England's bowling attack with ease. His partnership with Saim Ayub was particularly impressive, as the two batsmen added 149 runs and steadied the Pakistani innings.
Ghulam's achievement is all the more remarkable given that he was only given a chance to play due to Babar Azam 's poor form. The 29-year-old had been knocking on the doors of Test cricket for four years, scoring consistently in first-class cricket, and he grasped his opportunity with both hands.
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Pakistan , which is on an 11-match winless streak at home, made four changes after it became the first test-playing nation to lose a match by an innings after scoring 500-plus runs in the first innings.
Published 15 October 2024 at 20:38 IST