Perfect Babar Azam replacement: Fans react to Kamran Ghulam's 100 in Test debut

Kamran Ghulam made an instant impact on his Test debut, impressing Pakistan fans with a determined and crucial century. His performance drew comparisons to the struggling Babar Azam, whom he replaced after PCB's controversial squad overhaul.

In Short

• Kamran Ghulam impressed on debut with a 192-ball century
• Babar Azam’s form led to his exclusion after 18 innings
• PCB dropped key players, sparking widespread debate among fans

Pakistan cricket fans were quick to heap praise on debutant Kamran Ghulam for his resilient and crucial debut century in the second Test against England on October 15, drawing comparisons to Babar Azam, whom the 29-year-old replaced in the squad. Kamran's inclusion followed a wave of drama after the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) made the surprising decision to drop Babar, the team's premier batter, for domestic standout Kamran Ghulam. Seizing his opportunity, Kamran impressed everyone by scoring a brilliant half-century in his maiden Test appearance.

While the Pakistan top-order had an on-and-off show againstthe England bowling attack, it was Kamran Ghulam's 192-ball century which kept things balanced for the home side. Pakistan had suffered a humiliating loss to England by an innings and 47 runs in the first Test, despite posting 556 runs in their first innings. Afterward, the PCB made the controversial call to 'rest' Babar, along with key bowlers Shaheen Afridi and Naseem Shah, for the remainder of the series.

Fans, however, quickly rallied behind Kamran after his gritty performance, hailing him as a possible long-term replacement for Babar, who has struggled for form recently.

PAK vs ENG, 2nd Test: Scorecard

The PCB’s decision to drop Babar came after Pakistan’s crushing defeat in the first Test in Multan. Although players like Shan Masood, Abdullah Shafique, and Salman Ali Agha put in solid performances, the team as a whole faced heavy criticism. Babar Azam’s slump in form had been a growing concern, as he had not registered a half-century in his last 18 innings. In the Multan Test, Babar managed just 30 and 5 runs across two innings, adding to the mounting pressure on the star player.

Kamran Ghulam's strong start on debut has given Pakistan fans a glimmer of hope, with many hoping that the new addition can help turn the tide for the team in the ongoing Test series.