Pakistan captain Babar Azam found himself under intense spotlight after his cautious innings during Pakistan’s narrow win over the Netherlands in the T20 World Cup 2026 opener in Colombo. Despite Pakistan eventually edging past the Dutch side by three wickets the chase was far from convincing and sparked debate over Babar’s approach in the shortest format.
While chasing a modest target of 148 Pakistan appeared comfortable early with Sahibzada Farhan leading the charge through an attacking 47 off 31 deliveries. However the momentum shifted dramatically when Paul van Meekeren struck twice in a maiden over removing Farhan and Usman Khan in quick succession. The pressure continued to mount when Roelof van der Merwe dismissed Babar Azam shortly after.
Babar attempted to hit a wide delivery for a boundary but was caught at long off departing for 15 from 18 balls. His innings immediately drew sharp criticism from former India cricketer Mohammad Kaif who questioned Babar’s ability to accelerate in T20 cricket. Kaif remarked during live commentary that Babar’s strength lies in rotating strike rather than clearing the boundary and suggested that his repeated attempts to hit big shots often result in his dismissal.
The Netherlands pushed Pakistan to the brink after being bowled out for 147 with one ball remaining. Their bowlers applied sustained pressure and came close to pulling off a major upset. Pakistan were eventually rescued by Faheem Ashraf whose explosive unbeaten 29 off just 11 balls turned the match on its head and sealed victory with three balls remaining.
Although Pakistan secured the win the debate around Babar Azam’s strike rate and suitability as a T20 anchor is likely to continue. Pakistan will look to iron out their middle order concerns when they face the USA in their next Group A fixture on February 10 in Colombo.