Pakistan Test captain Babar Azam’s return to first-class cricket after seven years did not go as planned as he was dismissed for just 12 runs during his comeback appearance.
Babar represented Oil and Gas Development Company Limited (OGDCL) in the President’s Trophy 2026-27 at Abbottabad Cricket Stadium. The right-handed batter faced 20 deliveries before his innings came to an early end.
Fast bowler Arshad Iqbal dismissed Babar with a short-pitched delivery, preventing the Pakistan captain from making a significant contribution with the bat.
Babar’s return to domestic red-ball cricket had attracted considerable attention, with the batter looking to gain more first-class experience and match practice. His decision to feature in the domestic competition comes as he continues his cricketing commitments at the national level.
The early dismissal means Babar will have to wait for another opportunity to build an innings and spend more time at the crease in the competition. His performances in the upcoming matches will remain under focus as he looks to make the most of his return to longer-format domestic cricket.
The President’s Trophy provides Pakistan’s leading players with an opportunity to compete in the red-ball format and maintain their match rhythm. For Babar, the tournament offers valuable time in the middle after a lengthy absence from first-class cricket.
Despite the disappointing start, his return itself marks a significant development in his domestic career, with further innings expected to provide more opportunities to regain his rhythm in the longer format.
