Published: February 24, 2026 | Category: T20 World Cup | Reading Time: 4 minutes
Babar Azam has scored only 66 runs in four games at strike rate 115.78 so far in T20 World Cup.
Pakistan will play England in Super Eights Group 2 on February 24 at R Premadasa Stadium in Colombo. The main question is whether Babar Azam will be dropped from the playing XI.
Babar made 0 against Australia, 22 against Bangladesh, 31 against New Zealand and 13 against Sri Lanka. He has struggled against both pace and spin. He bowled a few overs in nets on February 23 but that was only practice.
Reports say Pakistan are thinking of change at top order. Possible opening pair can be Saim Ayub and Mohammad Rizwan. Fakhar Zaman can come at No.3. If Babar is axed then Usman Khan or Salman Ali Agha can play in middle order.
Bowling attack will stay same with Shaheen Shah Afridi, Naseem Shah, Haris Rauf and Abrar Ahmed. Shadab Khan and Iftikhar Ahmed are expected to play.
Pakistan have won 2 and lost 2 in group stage. They are third in Group 2 with NRR +0.450. England are on top with NRR +1.250 after three wins.
If Pakistan lose to England then their semi-final chances will be in big trouble.
February 24 will show if Pakistan stick with Babar or axe him. Team needs good batting performance to stay alive in Super Eights.