Champions Trophy 2025: Babar Azam Told to ‘Reduce Width Between His Feet’ by Sunil Gavaskar to Improve Batting Form

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ICC Champions Trophy 2025: In the ongoing tournament, Pakistan's captain and premier batsman, Babar Azam, has faced significant criticism due to underwhelming performances that have contributed to the host’s early exit from the competition.

In response to these challenges, former Indian captain and batting legend Sunil Gavaskar has provided specific technical advice aimed at helping Babar regain his prolific form.

Sunil Gavaskar's Technical Insights on Babar Azam’s Form

Analysing Babar's current batting stance, Gavaskar observed in an interview with former Shaheen cricketer Basit Ali that the Pakistani skipper's feet are positioned too wide apart, which may be hindering his movement and balance at the crease.

“If he can reduce the width between his feet, then two things will happen: one, when your feet are spread out, then you face difficulty going on back foot and front foot but when you are more balanced (with feet less wide), then you also gain a bit of height, while you are a bit down with feet spread out,” Gavaskar said. “So you can judge the bounce and movement of the ball a bit better when you are more upright. And an opening batter needs that height.”

Gavaskar expressed confidence that implementing this change would help Babar rediscover his run-scoring prowess. “If he tries to do this, then I believe the run-making ability he used to have will return, and the whole world will enjoy that, not just the Pakistanis,” the ex-Indian captain said. “The whole world wants to see him play shots like the flick through mid-wicket he produced (against India).”

Babar Azam's Performance in Champions Trophy 2025

Babar's performance in the tournament has been below his usual high standards. In the opening match against New Zealand, he scored a cautious 64 off 90 balls during a chase of 321 runs, a pace that drew criticism for lacking intent. Pakistan ultimately fell short by 60 runs in that encounter. In the subsequent high-stakes match against arch-rivals India, Babar managed only 23 runs from 26 balls, and Pakistan suffered a six-wicket defeat, leading to their elimination from the tournament.

The early exit from the Champions Trophy has led to intense scrutiny of both Babar's leadership and batting approach. Former Pakistani spinner Danish Kaneria criticised Babar's performances, highlighting his struggles against top-tier teams and suggesting that his scoring often comes against less formidable opponents.

Despite the criticism, as Pakistan prepares for future competitions, the onus will be on their captain to adapt and lead by example, potentially starting with the technical adjustments recommended by Gavaskar.

Implementing these changes could not only enhance Babar's individual performance but also bolster the overall morale and effectiveness of the Pakistani batting lineup in upcoming matches.