Australia batter Josh Philippe has thrown his support behind Pakistan’s batting mainstay Babar Azam, expressing confidence that the experienced right-hander will find his best form ahead of the upcoming ICC Men’s T20 World Cup.
Babar has endured a prolonged lean patch in the shortest format, having only managed two half-centuries since the T20 World Cup last year, showing a noticeable dip in his form. Currently Babar is in Australia, featuring for the Sydney Sixers in the Big Bash League. However, his campaign with the side has started quietly, with two single-figure scores from his first two appearances. Babar Azam managed just two runs in the first game, and in the second game, he mustered nine runs.
"He's a world-class player. It's probably challenging coming to Australia and these bouncy surfaces. But a couple of games under the belt, a few more sessions, he'll be absolutely fine. His record is outstanding. I have no doubt he'll be in the runs next game," Philippe said while speaking to reporters.
Following a series of disappointing performances, Babar has also slipped down to 31st place in the latest T20I Batting Rankings. Meanwhile, for Pakistan, Babar’s form will be crucial as they build towards the T20 World Cup.