Mon Nov 04 07:23:48 UTC 2024: ## Babar Azam’s Break Could Boost His Test Cricket Career, Says Pakistan Captain Shan Masood
**BENGALURU, INDIA** – Pakistan’s red-ball captain Shan Masood has expressed his belief that Babar Azam, the team’s former captain, will benefit from a break from test cricket. Masood sees this as a chance for the out-of-form batsman to rediscover his best form.
Babar Azam stepped down as captain across all formats last year following Pakistan’s underwhelming performance at the 50-over World Cup. He returned as white-ball captain in March but the team failed to make the Super Eight in the T20 World Cup.
Following a slump in form, Babar was dropped from the test squad for the second and third matches against England in October after a disappointing performance in the first test.
While his absence from the test set-up is temporary, Babar has been included in the one-day international and Twenty20 squads for the upcoming tour of Australia.
Speaking on the BBC’s ‘Stumped’ podcast, Shan Masood expressed his unwavering support for Babar. “He’s one of the best batsmen in the world,” Masood said, adding that the break will help him return “a stronger player.”
Masood believes the pressure of leading the team across all formats has taken a toll on Babar and that a brief respite will allow him to regain his focus and confidence.
Babar Azam’s next test appearance is expected to be in December, when Pakistan plays a two-match series against South Africa.
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