Speaking to the Podcast of a private channel, Waqar was asked to identify Pakistan’s last major cricketing superstar. While the host suggested former fast bowler Mohammad Amir, Waqar named Babar and Pakistan ODI captain Shaheen Shah Afridi as leading stars.
“Babar Azam is a superstar, Shaheen Afridi is a superstar,” Waqar said.
The discussion then turned to Babar’s ability to deliver match-winning performances. Mishra argued that although the former Pakistan captain has impressive statistics, his contributions have not produced as many memorable victories as those associated with previous Pakistani greats.
Responding to the criticism, Waqar said Babar’s biggest challenge was the absence of several established batters capable of sharing the responsibility.
According to the former Pakistan head coach, relying heavily on one player increases pressure and makes it difficult for him to perform consistently under intense expectations.
Waqar compared the current batting lineup with Pakistan’s team of the 1990s, which featured several experienced players capable of changing the outcome of matches.
He questioned how many established Pakistani batters could currently be named alongside Babar, arguing that the shortage of prominent batting stars had placed an additional burden on the former captain.
The legendary pacer also disagreed with comparisons between Babar and Indian batting great Sachin Tendulkar. He argued that Tendulkar had experienced teammates around him, including Sanjay Manjrekar and Navjot Singh Sidhu early in his career, before India developed a formidable batting lineup featuring Rahul Dravid, Sourav Ganguly, VVS Laxman and Virender Sehwag.
Waqar further explained that Babar’s early success had created exceptionally high expectations among supporters, leaving him vulnerable to criticism whenever his form dipped. He compared the scrutiny with the pressure faced by India’s Virat Kohli.
Babar has accumulated 6,744 runs in ODI cricket at an average of 52.68, including 20 centuries, matching Saeed Anwar’s record for the most ODI hundreds by a Pakistani batter.
However, his recent returns have attracted attention. He scored 243 runs in his last seven ODI appearances at an average of 34.71, including just one half-century.
Waqar’s comments highlight the debate over whether Pakistan’s batting struggles should be viewed as an individual problem or a broader team issue.
