Babar Azam set for first-class return after seven years to rediscover form
Pakistan star Babar Azam reaches out to PCB for a spot in the President's Trophy to regain red-ball rhythm after nearly seven years away from domestic first-class cricket.
Former Pakistan captain Babar Azam is set to make a long-awaited return to domestic first-class cricket as he seeks to recalibrate his technique and regain match sharpness after a prolonged slump on the international stage.
The star top-order batter recently reached out to the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), requesting that a team be arranged for him in the ongoing President's Trophy Grade 1 tournament.
Babar has not featured in a domestic first-class encounter since 2019, with a relentless international schedule and top-tier contractual commitments keeping him away from Pakistan's regional red-ball circuit for nearly seven years.
The proactive move follows a difficult stretch for the right-hander, who was rested and dropped from the Test side during Pakistan's home series against England as national selectors encouraged him to spend time away from high-pressure international fixtures.
Having lacked significant long-format scores over the past two seasons, a stint in the President's Trophy offers Babar much-needed middle time without the immediate scrutiny of international cricket.
PCB officials have welcomed the 30-year-old's initiative, noting that the inclusion of marquee national players in domestic competitions significantly boosts the standard and visibility of the tournament.
With upcoming international assignments demanding technical precision and patience, Babar views this first-class campaign as a fundamental stepping stone toward restoring his authority at the crease.