Babar Azam doesn't need to give any message: Gambhir

Former Indian cricketer, Gautam Gambhir, expressed that Pakistan skipper Babar Azam, despite his recent century against Nepal, will face a challenge from India's fast bowlers.

While talking to Star Sports, Gambhir was asked whether Babar's impressive innings against Nepal sent a message to the Indian team; Gambhir stated that Babar doesn't need to prove anything or send any message.

"Babar Azam doesn't need to give any message. He has given a message in the 104 matches he has played. If you can score 19 centuries in 104 matches, I believe he will be in the top two or three players in all formats. So he doesn't need to give a message," Gambhir said.

However, Gambhir emphasized that the upcoming match between Pakistan and India will be a stern test for Babar against India's fast bowling trio, including Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammad Shami, and Mohammed Siraj - suggesting that this would be a rare chance to see an Indian bowling attack that could genuinely challenge Babar.

"However, it will be a good contest. He will be tested against the Indian fast bowling. You will get to see an Indian attack after a long time, where all three bowlers (Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammad Shami, and Mohammed Siraj) can test Babar Azam properly," he further added.

Moreover, Gambhir also stated that Babar would be equally yearning to prove his batting mastery against India's bowling attack. Adding that such exceptional players seek to test themselves against top-tier bowlers.

Babar has scored 5353 runs in One Day Internationals (ODI), having an excellent average of 59.47. However, he has been underwhelming against India, with just 158 runs in five innings at an average of 31.60.

Pakistan and India will face each other on September 2 in Kandy. While the Babar-led side has already opened their Asia Cup campaign by defeating Nepal on Wednesday, India will play their first game against arch-rivals on Saturday.