Babar Azam’s return to Pakistan’s domestic first-class cricket did not go as planned. The Pakistan Test captain failed with the bat in both innings of the Abbottabad Presidents Cup match on Sunday, marking his first red-ball appearance at this level in more than six years.

Playing for Oil and Gas Development Company Limited (OGDCL) against Khan Research Laboratories (KRL), Babar was dismissed for just four runs in the second innings. Pakistan teammate Faheem Ashraf trapped him leg before wicket on the fourth and final day.

Babar had also struggled in the first innings. He managed only 12 runs before Arshad Iqbal got him out with a short delivery, which Babar hit towards short mid-wicket.

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Fans Left Disappointed In Abbottabad

There was plenty of interest in Babar’s return to first-class cricket. He had not played at this level since December 2019, and a decent crowd gathered at the Abbottabad ground hoping to see the star batter spend some time at the crease.

However, Babar could not make the most of either opportunity and was back in the pavilion cheaply on both occasions.

His two low scores quickly led to debate on social media, with some fans questioning his current form and batting approach, while others continued to back the experienced batter.

Young Batter Steals The Spotlight

While Babar struggled, another Pakistan batter made headlines with a huge score.

Abdullah Fazal smashed a brilliant triple century for State Bank in Islamabad on Saturday. Fazal had recently returned from the West Indies after being sent home from the tour in August because of a back spasm.

Babar Misses Asian Games Selection

Babar was among the senior Pakistan players who were not selected for the Asian Games cricket event in Japan.

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His next opportunity to return to the international setup could come with Pakistan’s upcoming series against Sri Lanka.

Pakistan are scheduled to play a three-match T20I series at home next month before facing Sri Lanka in a two-Test series in November.