Babar Azam’s return to Pakistan’s domestic cricket did not last very long. The Pakistan Test captain was dismissed for 12 while playing for Oil and Gas Development Company Limited (OGDCL) against Khan Research Laboratories (KRL) in Abbottabad on Saturday.

Babar had been away from domestic first-class cricket for nearly seven years, so there was plenty of interest around his return. Fans in Abbottabad were particularly keen to see the Pakistan batter in action.

Fans Waited Two Days To See Babar Bat

Babar’s presence drew a big crowd at the ground. Some supporters even made their way onto the field in an attempt to meet the Pakistan star.

But those waiting to see him bat had to be patient.

Babar only got his chance on the third day after KRL posted 398 in their first innings. OGDCL then began their reply with Babar coming in as one of the main attractions of the match. However, his stay at the crease was short.

Babar Falls for 12 Against KRL

Babar faced 20 balls and scored 12 runs, hitting two boundaries. He was dismissed by Arshad Iqbal after the pacer bowled a bouncer. Babar’s attempt ended up in the hands of Abdul Faseeh, who completed the catch.

It was another blow for OGDCL, who were already in trouble. Following Babar’s dismissal, they slipped to 46/4. Iqbal was causing most of the damage with the ball and had picked up three of OGDCL’s four wickets at that stage.

Another Tough Phase for Babar

Babar’s decision to play domestic cricket comes after a difficult period in international cricket.

Pakistan recently suffered a 3-0 Test series defeat in England. Babar missed the first Test because of injury but returned for the remaining matches and finished the series with only 97 runs from four innings.

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His struggles against fast bowling were again a talking point, particularly after his low scores at Lord’s.

The poor run also brought criticism from back home, with Pakistan struggling for consistency in Test cricket.

Rather than staying away from the game after the England series, Babar chose to go back to domestic cricket. He is representing OGDCL alongside Pakistan internationals Saud Shakeel and Naseem Shah in the President’s Trophy.

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Babar Will Get More Chances

There was a lot of attention on Babar’s first domestic appearance in almost seven years, but the Pakistan batter could not make the most of his opportunity. Twelve runs is unlikely to be the return he would have wanted.

Still, his decision to play domestic cricket gives him more chances to spend time at the crease and work on his red-ball batting. His next innings will now be closely watched, especially after this early exit in Abbottabad.