WATCH: Frustrated Babar Azam smashes his bat on the ground after disappointing show in Quaid-e-Azam Trophy

Pakistan‘s preparations for the upcoming Test series against Sri Lanka have brought Babar Azam back into domestic cricket, but his latest outing has offered little encouragement. The experienced batter represented Lahore Whites in their Quaid-e-Azam Trophy fixture against FATA, hoping to spend some valuable time in the middle and rediscover his rhythm. However, after managing scores of 28 and 42 across both innings, Babar failed to make the most of the opportunity.

Babar Azam smashes his bat on ground after failure in domestic circuit

Babar looked to settle into his innings during Lahore Whites’ second attempt with the bat. He scored 42 runs from 77 deliveries, showing some resistance before his stay at the crease came to an end. FATA pacer Shahid Aziz was responsible for his dismissal, delivering a length ball that moved away from the right-hander. The delivery was pitched outside the off-stump, in the seventh or eighth stump region, giving Babar the option of leaving it alone.

However, the batter followed the ball and attempted to play a shot away from his body. His decision proved costly as the outside edge carried straight to the first-slip fielder, who completed the catch.

Babar’s reaction suggested that he was unhappy with the manner of his dismissal. Having spent 77 deliveries at the crease, he would have wanted to convert his start into a more meaningful innings, particularly with an important international assignment approaching.

A video circulating on social media showed the Pakistan batter visibly frustrated as he smashed his bat against the ground while making his way back to the dressing room. The incident reflected his frustration after missing another opportunity to produce a substantial contribution with the bat.

Here’s the video:

Babar Azam keeps getting dismissed in the same manner. Not a good sign! 😬pic.twitter.com/dLXh35ST7S

— Sheri. (@CallMeSheri1_) November 6, 2026

FATA dominate Lahore Whites to secure a massive victory

The contest turned out to be a difficult one for Lahore Whites, who struggled to match FATA’s consistency across all four innings. After winning the toss, Lahore Whites elected to field first. FATA made the most of their opportunity, posting 362 runs in 84.1 overs. Fawad Arshad played a crucial role with a patient 115 off 311 deliveries, providing the foundation for the team’s first-innings total.

In reply, Lahore Whites were dismissed for 234 in 49.2 overs. Ali Zaryab offered some resistance with 51 runs, but the remaining batters failed to build substantial partnerships. FATA strengthened their position in the second innings by scoring another 283 runs in 59.1 overs. Mohammad Farooq led the charge with an impressive 123 off 191 balls, putting further pressure on the opposition.

Chasing the target, Lahore Whites could manage only 170 runs. Wicketkeeper-batter Zain Bin Farooq was their leading scorer with 44, but the team eventually suffered a heavy 241-run defeat.

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Crucial challenge ahead of Sri Lanka Tests

With Pakistan scheduled to begin their Test series against Sri Lanka on November 9, Babar will have limited time to address his batting concerns through competitive cricket. The opening Test is scheduled to take place in Rawalpindi, where the experienced batter will be expected to play a significant role for his country.

His domestic outing against FATA did not produce the desired results, but the focus will now shift towards translating his experience into performances at the international level. Babar will need to show better shot selection, patience and application when Pakistan take on Sri Lanka.

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