PAK vs ENG: ‘Babar Azam’s perfect replacement’ says fans on Kamran Ghulam’s 100 on Test debut

Pakistan cricket fans were quick to praise debutant Kamran Ghulam for his resilient and crucial debut century in the second Test against England on October 15, drawing comparisons with Babar Azam, who the 29-year-old replaced in the template Kamran’s inclusion followed a wave of drama after the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) took the surprising decision to drop Babar, the team’s leading batsman, for national standout Kamran Ghulam. Seizing his opportunity, Kamran impressed everyone by scoring a brilliant half-century in his first Test appearance.

While Pakistan’s top order put in an intermittent show against England’s bowling attack, it was Kamran Ghulam’s 192-ball century that kept things balanced for the home side. Pakistan had suffered a humiliating loss to England by an innings and 47 runs in the first Test, despite scoring 556 runs in their first innings. The PCB then made the controversial call to “rest” Babar, along with key players Shaheen Afridi and Naseem Shah, for the rest of the series.

The fans, however, quickly rallied Kamran after his tough performancehailing him as a potential long-term replacement for Babar, who has struggled for form recently.

PAK vs ENG, 2nd Test: Scoreboard

PCB’s decision to drop Babar it came after Pakistan’s crushing defeat in the first Test at Multan. While players like Shan Masood, Abdullah Shafique and Salman Ali Agha put in solid performances, the team as a whole faced heavy criticism. Babar Azam’s slump in form had been a growing concern as he had failed to register a half-century in his last 18 innings. In the Multan Test, Babar managed just 30 and 5 runs in two innings, which increased the pressure on the star player.

Kamran Ghulam’s strong start on debut has given Pakistan fans some hope, with many hoping that the new addition can help turn the tide for the team in the ongoing Test series.