Babar Azam’s nightmare vs India continues after yet another failure in T20 World Cup

Babar Azam’s Struggles Versus India Continue After Another Failure in T20 World Cup

📅 February 16, 2026
✍️ Editor: Sudhir Choudhary, The Vagabond News

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Pakistan captain and star batter Babar Azam endured another disappointing performance against arch-rivals India at the ICC T20 World Cup 2026 on Sunday, as his struggles in high-pressure matches against India deepened in the Group A clash in Colombo.

In the chase of 176 set by India at the R. Premadasa Stadium, Babar managed just five runs off seven balls before being dismissed by India’s Axar Patel — a dismissal that punctuated Pakistan’s top-order collapse. Pakistan was eventually beaten by 61 runs, failing to keep pace with India’s commanding total.

Another Low Score Against India

Babar’s early dismissal continued a pattern of underwhelming returns in T20 internationals against India. Entering the match amid pressure to anchor Pakistan’s chase, he fell cheaply and saw Pakistan’s innings quickly unravel, with the team slipping to 34/4 before rebuilding efforts by other batters.

Across his six T20 innings against India, Babar has now scored only 110 runs at an average of 22.00 with an elevated strike rate but limited substantial contributions, statistics that underline his challenges against India’s bowling attack in marquee fixtures.

Analysts watching the match noted that India’s bowling strategy — led by a mix of spin and pace — effectively countered Pakistan’s batting approach, with Babar unable to assert himself before the crucial middle overs.

Pakistan’s Campaign and World Cup Stakes

The loss to India significantly impacted Pakistan’s position in the group stage. India’s emphatic 61-run win not only secured their place in the Super Eights of the tournament but also left Pakistan needing a victory in their remaining match — against Namibia — to keep hopes of progressing alive.

Pakistan’s top order struggled broadly in the chase, with only a handful of contributions validating their intent. In contrast, India’s innings was powered by an explosive 77 from Ishan Kishan, whose aggressive batting set the tone for a commanding total.

Critics and former Pakistan players have responded to the defeat with renewed calls for reassessment of team strategy and lineup, with some commentators advocating changes to the batting order and broader tactical plans ahead of the tournament’s later stages.

Broader Context of Babar’s Form

Babar has long been viewed as one of Pakistan’s most technically gifted batters and has held leadership roles within the side. However, his recent performances against India in T20 World Cups and other major competitions have prompted debate about his ability to deliver under pressure in rivalry matches. Prior to this tournament, he has faced criticism over form and consistency across formats.

Despite these challenges, Babar remains a key figure in Pakistan’s cricket setup, and selectors are expected to back him ahead of the team’s next World Cup group match. His ability to respond to adversity will be a focal point for Pakistan’s campaign moving forward.