Slow Scoring Puts Spotlight on Senior Batters
Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan are facing increasing scrutiny after a disappointing run of form in ODI, with the current series against the West Indies adding fresh concerns.
Recent statistics show both players have recorded the lowest strike rates in ODIs among batters from ICC full-member nations over the past two years. S
Since January 1, 2024, Rizwan’s strike rate has been 75.03 — the slowest of all — while Babar’s sits at 78.88, making him the second slowest.
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No other batter from a full-member side is below 80 in that period.
This contrasts sharply with the modern ODI game, where elite teams often maintain strike rates above 90.
While the duo has been the backbone of Pakistan’s batting over the past five years, their current approach appears to be contributing to mounting run-rate pressure.
Read More: Babar Azam Falls Short of Century Record
In 2024, Pakistan enjoyed success, winning 7 of 9 ODIs, including away series victories against Australia and South Africa.
However, 2025 has been far less fruitful, with just 2 wins in 10 matches and a poor Champions Trophy campaign.
Babar’s form is under particular focus, as he has not scored an international century since August 2023.
Despite hitting 18 half-centuries in 71 innings across formats since then, he has been unable to convert those starts into big scores.
Rizwan remains reliable as an anchor but has struggled to accelerate during middle overs.
ODI Strike Rates Since Jan 1, 2024
| Player | Country | Strike Rate | Rank (Slowest) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mohammad Rizwan | Pakistan | 75.03 | 1 |
| Babar Azam | Pakistan | 78.88 | 2 |
| Next Slowest Batter | — | 80.12+ | 3+ |
