Pakistan’s former captain and top batter, Babar Azam, will start the first game of the next tri-nation series against New Zealand and South Africa, according to Dawn of Pakistan.
The decision to replace Saim Ayub, Pakistan’s usual opener, was made following the latter’s ankle fracture in last month’s second Test against South Africa. According to an insider in the selection committee, Saim will not be able to play in either the tri-nation series or the ICC Champions Trophy since he has been given a two- to three-month suspension.
There were two unfilled spots for Pakistan’s starting lineup after Abdullah Shafique was also benched. Therefore, management has chosen to give Babar a shot at opening, a role in which he has been very successful in Twenty20 cricket. Fakhar Zaman, a veteran left-hander who had a temporary break from one-day internationals, will be his partner. However, Babar’s prospects as a Champions Trophy opener remain uncertain.
Pakistan has brought back Test expert Saud Shakeel for the 50-over format to bolster their batting frontline. Under Mohammad Rizwan’s leadership, the squad will face South Africa in Karachi on February 12 after their tri-nation campaign opener against New Zealand on February 8 in Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium. Karachi, Pakistan, will host the championship game on February 14.
In preparation for the Champions Trophy, Pakistan will play host to New Zealand on February 19 in Karachi before meeting their bitter rivals India on February 23 in Dubai. On February 27, in Rawalpindi, they will face Bangladesh in their last group stage match.
Pakistan is hosting an ICC tournament for the first time since the 1996 World Cup, and this Champions Trophy is a historic moment for the country. As Pakistan strives for domestic glory, fans will eagerly observe Babar’s adjustment to his new position.
