Babar Azam endured a challenging return to domestic cricket as Lahore Whites suffered a 241-run defeat against FATA Region in the Quaid-e-Azam Trophy, with the star batsman showing visible frustration after his dismissal in the second innings. The veteran batsman managed scores of 28 and 42 across his two appearances in the match, failing to convert his starts into substantial contributions ahead of international assignments.
During his second-innings knock, Babar made 42 runs from 77 deliveries before chasing a delivery from FATA pace bowler Shahid Aziz that was pitched outside the off stump and moving away. The right-hander played away from his body and produced an outside edge that was safely claimed by the first slip fielder, bringing a premature end to his time at the crease.
As he walked back toward the dressing room following the dismissal, video footage captured the former Pakistan captain bringing his bat down forcefully on the ground in visible frustration. The sequence highlighted the mounting pressure on the experienced batsman to regain his rhythm and big-scoring touch during the domestic fixture.
In the broader context of the match, FATA Region posted a formidable total of 362 in their first innings, anchored by a patient century from Fawad Arshad. Lahore Whites struggled in response, managing only 234 runs to concede a significant first-innings lead to their opponents.
FATA further tightened their grip on the fixture by adding 283 runs in their second innings, aided by a commanding 123-run knock from Mohammad Farooq. Chasing a daunting target for victory, Lahore Whites were eventually dismissed for 170 runs, with Zain Bin Farooq finishing as their top scorer with 44.
The domestic outing served as preparation for Babar ahead of Pakistan's upcoming Test series against Sri Lanka, which is scheduled to get underway on November 9 in Rawalpindi. The batsman will now aim to put the disappointing domestic scores and dismissal behind him as he transitions back to the international setup.
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