LAHORE, OCT 13 :Pakistani cricketer Fakhar has raised concerns over increasing suggestions to drop Babar Azam from the national cricket team for England Test, drawing comparisons to Virat Kohli’s lean period for India.

In a statement on social media on Sunday, Fakhar emphasised the importance of supporting key players during difficult phases. “It’s concerning to hear suggestions about dropping Babar Azam. India didn’t bench Virat Kohli during his rough stretch between 2020 and 2023, when he averaged 19.33, 28.21, and 26.50, respectively,” Fakhar said.

Drawing parallels to Kohli’s struggles, Fakhar stressed the potentially harmful impact of sidelining Pakistan’s premier batsman, who he believes is among the best the country has ever produced. “If we are considering sidelining our premier batsman, arguably the best Pakistan has ever produced, it could send a deeply negative message across the team,” he cautioned.

Fakhar urged patience and careful decision-making, calling for the management to focus on strengthening the team’s core. “There is still time to avoid pressing the panic button; we should focus on safeguarding our key players rather than undermining them,” he added.

His comments come amidst growing speculation about Babar Azam’s form and the overall performance of the Pakistani team as they prepare for upcoming international fixtures.