Photo via Hindustan Times

Babar Azam's century drought continues; ‘weakness’ exposed after ‘poor’ dismissal: ‘That was really bad’

Pakistan skipper Babar Azam fell short of breaking his lengthy century drought during the third Test against England at Edgbaston, getting caught behind off Josh Tongue for 76. The 31-year-old struck 11 boundaries and a maximum during his 76-ball fifty, forging an 89-run fourth-wicket partnership with Shan Masood to push Pakistan past the 200-run threshold for the first time in six innings this series.

Babar had faced mounting pressure following scores of 8 and 6 at Lord's and a five-run display in the opening innings in Birmingham, having previously sat out the Headingley opener because of a fitness issue sustained against PCC Select. He also drew criticism from after seven teammates and two coaches were dropped amid back-to-back series defeats.