Babar Azam to open with Fakhar Zaman in Tri-Series, Champions Trophy
Cricket
Babar has accepted this challenging mission
LAHORE (Web Desk) - Pakistan cricket team has finalised Babar Azam as the opening partner alongside Fakhar Zaman for the upcoming Tri-Nation Series and ICC Champions Trophy.
The team management has entrusted Babar Azam with a pivotal role, similar to the one legendary Sachin Tendulkar played for India. Babar has accepted this challenging mission, marking a significant shift from his usual one-down batting position.
In the recently announced 15-member squad, Fakhar Zaman remains the sole regular opener. Although Chief Selector Asad Shafiq initially stated that the second opener’s decision would be made closer to match day, credible sources have confirmed Babar’s selection for the role.
The decision came after rising star Saim Ayub suffered an ankle injury during the first day of the Cape Town Test, sidelining him for 2 to 2.5 months. This prompted discussions among Mohammad Rizwan, Aqib Javed, batting coach Shahid Aslam, and selectors, convincing Babar to open in both Tests and ODIs.
Babar has been encouraged to emulate Tendulkar’s approach by aiming to bat through the innings in ODIs. The team management believes his consistency and technique will be key to Pakistan’s success in the upcoming tournaments.
The 30-year-old has an impressive ODI record, scoring 5,957 runs at an average of 56 in 123 matches, including 19 centuries and 23 fifties. While he regularly opens in T20Is, Babar has previously opened in ODIs only twice against England in 2015.
