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Babar Azam To Replace Saim Ayub as Opener? Pakistan’s Probable Batting Order for Champions Trophy 2025
Pakistan’s preparations for the Champions Trophy 2025 have been dealt a significant blow with the injury of their in-form opener, Saim Ayub. Saim, who showcased excellent form in the recent white-ball series against South Africa, sustained an ankle injury during the Test series and remains doubtful for the marquee tournament.
Saim Ayub’s Injury Raises Concerns
According to recent reports, Saim Ayub has not yet recovered from his ankle injury. This puts Pakistan in a dilemma about their opening combination. With no confirmation on his participation, Pakistan’s management is reportedly considering recalling Shan Masood or Imam-ul-Haq to fill the opening slot.
Potential Setback with Shan Masood or Imam-ul-Haq
While both Shan Masood and Imam-ul-Haq have the experience, neither has played an ODI since 2023. Bringing them back for such a crucial event could disrupt team dynamics and impact performance. Pakistan’s selectors might need to explore a more innovative solution for the opening role.
Why Babar Azam Should Open the Innings
Babar Azam’s Experience at the Top
Babar Azam, Pakistan’s batting maestro, typically bats at number three in ODIs. However, his experience as an opener in T20Is and the Pakistan Super League makes him a strong candidate for the role. Promoting Babar Azam to open alongside Fakhar Zaman can address several challenges for Pakistan.
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Strength Against the New Ball: Babar’s solid technique makes him an ideal choice to handle the moving ball.
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Complementing Fakhar Zaman: Fakhar’s aggressive approach pairs well with Babar’s stability, creating a balanced opening partnership.
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Vacating Middle-Order Spot: Babar’s move to the top opens up opportunities for middle-order talent like Tayyab Tahir, who has been in fine form in List-A cricket.
Proposed Top Order
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Fakhar Zaman: The aggressor who can dominate the powerplay.
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Babar Azam: The stabilizer providing a solid foundation.
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Kamran Ghulam: Batting at number three, he can carry the innings forward.
Probable Middle Order for Champions Trophy 2025
Key Middle-Order Players
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Mohammad Rizwan (C/WK): Pakistan’s captain and wicketkeeper, Rizwan, thrives at number four. His impressive record of 1719 runs at an average of 49.11 in ODIs underscores his importance.
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Tayyab Tahir: A promising talent who can capitalize on middle-order opportunities.
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Agha Salman: A versatile player contributing with both the bat and off-spin.
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Aamir Jamal: Preferred as a finisher and a handy medium pacer, Aamir Jamal brings much-needed depth.
Supporting Contributions
Agha Salman’s ability to exploit spin-friendly conditions with his off-breaks makes him a valuable asset. Similarly, Aamir Jamal’s clean hitting and bowling capabilities make him a preferred choice over Irfan Khan, who has struggled in ODIs.
Pakistan’s Probable Top 7 for Champions Trophy 2025 (If Saim Ayub Is Unavailable)
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Fakhar Zaman
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Babar Azam
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Kamran Ghulam
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Mohammad Rizwan (C/WK)
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Tayyab Tahir
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Agha Salman
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Aamir Jamal
With Saim Ayub’s participation in doubt, Pakistan faces a critical decision in reshaping their batting lineup for the Champions Trophy. Promoting Babar Azam to open could be the most pragmatic approach, balancing experience and form. However, the success of this strategy will heavily depend on how well the team adapts to these changes.
For a detailed analysis of Pakistan’s Champions Trophy squad, visit our Champions Trophy news section.
External Resource:
Learn more about Pakistan’s cricketing history on ESPNcricinfo.
