Pakistan’s selection committee is pondering a radical reshuffle of its batting lineup ahead of the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy, and this time it could open its innings with its ace batter Babar Azam. This will happen in the absence of Saim Ayub, who suffered an injury and won’t be considered for the event. The selectors, however, are confident that Babar can follow the path of Sachin Tendulkar, who bloomed after becoming an opener in ODIs, feel senior figures Aaqib Javed and Azhar Ali.
Saim Ayub’s Injury Forces Selection Rethink
The talk of Babar being promoted came following Saim Ayub’s ankle injury in the second Test against South Africa at Cape Town last month. According to medical reports, Saim will be unavailable for at least two months and is unlikely to feature in the Champions Trophy.
The selectors of Pakistan, who considered this, required more alternatives for opening slots. They decided not to call Imam-ul-Haq back or induct another opener. Rather, they thought Babar Azam would become the perfect candidate to be promoted in such a slot.
Babar Azam to Mimic Sachin Tendulkar’s Road?
Pakistan’s selectors have been reportedly drawing comparisons between Babar and Indian legend Sachin Tendulkar, who was an original middle-order batsman who moved up the order in 1994 to become one of the most prolific openers in ODI history.
The selection panel reminded Babar that, just like Tendulkar, he was one who could easily dominate the bowlers right from the very start. Considering the fact that Babar has been opening for T20 cricket often, the selectors feel he will do so easily in ODIs too.
Babar’s Success as Opener in Cape Town Test Strengthened Case
Interestingly, when Saim Ayub got injured in the first innings of the Cape Town Test, Babar Azam and Shan Masood opened the innings, and in the process created a big partnership that further sealed the deal from the selectors to make him do the job for ODIs.
Babar said he discussed this with Aaqib Javed and Azhar Ali and felt that it would be an excellent opportunity to learn more about the game and perform better for his team.
Fakhar Zaman to Open with Babar Azam in Champions Trophy
Fakhar Zaman is all set to be the opening partner of Babar Azam as the latter has agreed to open in the Champions Trophy. The experienced left-hander, who has been a key player for Pakistan in white-ball cricket, is likely to return to the XI for the tournament.
Selector Asad Shafiq has confirmed that either Babar or Saud Shakeel will open with Fakhar, dependent upon the match conditions and opposition strategies.
Middle-Order Changes and Team Combination
This change in batting order has given a chance to Pakistan to try its middle order. The inclusions of Khushdil Shah, Faheem Ashraf, and Usman Khan in the Champions Trophy squad had been a result of such a tactic.
Khushdil Shah can provide finishing touches with some aggression.
Faheem Ashraf provides balance as a bowling all-rounder.
Usman Khan has prior 50-over experience, making him a viable middle-order option.
The selectors believe these changes will make the team more dynamic and flexible in high-pressure matches.
Final Decision and BCCI’s Role
While the decision to open with Babar Azam is nearly finalized, the selectors will make the final call based on pitch conditions and opposition analysis.
The new opening partnership for Pakistan will be keenly watched during the Champions Trophy lead-up as they strive to utilize batting strength maximally to compete at the international level.