“On slow pitches, he’s worth his weight in gold”: Faf du Plessis backs Babar Azam amid T20 strike-rate debate

Former South Africa captain Faf du Plessis has offered a balanced and thoughtful assessment of Babar Azam’s evolving role in T20 international cricket, acknowledging both the challenges and the continued value the Pakistan star brings to the format.

Speaking about the modern demands of T20 cricket, du Plessis noted that the format has changed dramatically in recent years — particularly when it comes to strike rates in the powerplay. While Babar has long been regarded as one of the world’s premier batters, the South African great admitted that the explosive nature of today’s T20 game has raised the bar significantly.

“All great players evolve at different points in their careers,” du Plessis said, emphasizing that Babar’s quality and class remain unquestioned. However, he pointed out that the powerplay phase now demands aggressive scoring at strike rates of 160 to 200 or even higher — a benchmark that has redefined expectations for top-order batters.

Du Plessis explained that team management, under head coach Mike Hesson, appears to be recalibrating Babar’s role to suit both his strengths and the team’s needs. Rather than forcing him into a high-risk power-hitting mold, Pakistan may look to deploy him strategically — especially on slower, spin-friendly surfaces.

On turning tracks, du Plessis believes Babar remains invaluable.

“On spinning pitches, especially in the middle overs, that’s where someone like him is worth his weight in gold,” he remarked. “He can minimize dot balls. He can rotate the strike.”

According to du Plessis, such conditions bring a different tactical equation into play. On flat wickets where big totals are common, anchoring roles often diminish in importance as teams prioritize relentless aggression. But on tricky surfaces where timing is difficult and spinners dominate the middle phase, a technically sound batter who can maintain a strike rate between 120–130 while ensuring stability still has a crucial role.

The former Proteas skipper suggested that Pakistan’s strategy reflects a deeper understanding of the modern game — not discarding experience, but repositioning it. In venues where spin is expected to play a major role, Babar could serve as the innings’ backbone, ensuring control and structure while others attack around him.

Du Plessis’ comments come amid growing debate over Babar’s strike rate in T20 cricket, particularly in the powerplay. While critics have questioned whether his approach aligns with the ultra-aggressive demands of today’s game, supporters argue that his consistency and ability to handle pressure remain assets few can replicate.

The discussion ultimately underscores the broader evolution of T20 cricket — a format that continues to redefine roles and expectations. And as du Plessis highlighted, adaptation, not abandonment, may be the key to unlocking Babar Azam’s continued impact on the international stage.