In Pakistan’s First ICC Event Since 1996, Babar Azam And Fakhar Zaman Fare Worse Than Batters Of The Past

Top-Order Intent: Pakistan’s top-order batters need to show more intent, especially when chasing big targets.
Fitness Concerns: Injuries to key players like Fakhar Zaman can disrupt the team’s strategy. Proper fitness management is essential.
Adaptability: The team must adapt to different match situations and play according to the demands of the game.

Pakistan’s first match in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 ended in disappointment as they struggled to chase a target of 321 runs against New Zealand. The match, held in Karachi, marked Pakistan’s first ICC event on home soil since 1996. Despite high expectations, the team’s performance fell short, especially from key players like Babar Azam and Fakhar Zaman.

The match began with an unexpected twist as Fakhar Zaman was unable to open due to a muscular sprain. This forced Saud Shakeel to open for the first time, while captain Mohammad Rizwan had to bat at No. 3. Pakistan’s powerplay score of 22/2 was their lowest ever, pushing the required run rate to 7.4. By the 20th over, the team needed to score at 8.5 runs per over, a challenging task given their slow start.

The pressure of chasing a 300+ target was evident as Pakistan’s top-order batters failed to accelerate. While Babar Azam remained at the crease for 47 balls, his strike rate of 71.11 was far from ideal. Similarly, Fakhar Zaman’s 24 runs off 41 balls further hampered Pakistan’s chances. The team’s inability to adapt to the situation left fans questioning their approach in such a high-stakes game.

Babar Azam’s Underwhelming Performance

Babar Azam, often hailed as Pakistan’s modern-day batting maestro, failed to live up to expectations in the opening match. Scoring 64 runs off 90 deliveries, Azam’s strike rate of 71.11 was one of his slowest in ODIs. Azam has historically crossed the 50-run mark 54 times in 124 matches, but his latest innings were far from impactful.

ALSO READ: Babar Azam Should Not Open in Champions Trophy 2025, Says Former Player

Azam’s cautious approach during the powerplay and middle overs drew criticism. Despite having only two fielders outside the 30-yard circle, he failed to capitalize on the opportunity. His inability to accelerate the scoring rate put additional pressure on the middle and lower order. While Azam is known for his consistency, his performance in this match raised questions about his ability to deliver in high-pressure situations.

The match was a reminder that even the best players can have off days. However, for a player of Azam’s caliber, fans expected more, especially in a tournament as prestigious as the ICC Champions Trophy. With Pakistan being the defending champions, Azam’s form will be crucial if the team hopes to retain the title.

Fakhar Zaman’s Struggles with Fitness and Form

Fakhar Zaman, another key player in Pakistan’s lineup, also had a forgettable outing. Battling a muscular sprain, Zaman struggled to time the ball and run between the wickets. His 24 runs off 41 balls came at a strike rate of 58.53, significantly below his usual standards.

Zaman’s injury not only affected his batting but also disrupted the team’s strategy. His inability to open the innings forced a reshuffle in the batting order, which ultimately backfired. Zaman’s reckless slog-sweep, which led to his dismissal, further highlighted his struggles.

Despite his poor performance, Zaman remains a vital part of Pakistan’s batting lineup. His aggressive style of play has won matches for Pakistan in the past, and fans will hope he regains his form soon. With the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 still in its early stages, Zaman has time to recover and make a stronger impact in the upcoming matches.

ALSO READ: Imam-ul-Haq Replaces Fakhar Zaman In Pakistan's Champions Trophy 2025 Squad

Pakistan’s Defending Champions Status Under Scrutiny

As the defending champions of the ICC Champions Trophy, Pakistan entered the tournament with high expectations. However, their performance in the opening match raised concerns about their ability to retain the title. The team’s inability to chase a 300+ target, despite having done so a week earlier at the same venue, was particularly disappointing.

The match also highlighted the need for Pakistan’s top-order batters to adapt to different situations. While Babar Azam and Fakhar Zaman are undoubtedly talented, their cautious approach in this match cost the team dearly. The middle and lower order, too, failed to make up for the slow start, resulting in a comprehensive defeat.

With the tournament being held in Pakistan after nearly three decades, the pressure on the team is immense. The fans, who have waited years to witness an ICC event on home soil, will be hoping for a turnaround in the upcoming matches. For Pakistan to succeed, their star players must step up and deliver when it matters most.

Lessons from the Past: A Look Back at 1996

The last time Pakistan hosted an ICC event was in 1996, and the comparisons between then and now are inevitable. Back in 1996, Pakistan’s batters showed more intent and adaptability, traits that were missing in the opening match of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.

While the game has evolved significantly since 1996, the basic principles of chasing a big target remain the same. Accelerating the scoring rate during the middle overs and capitalizing on fielding restrictions are crucial. Unfortunately, Pakistan’s top-order failed to do so, resulting in a disappointing start to the tournament.

ALSO READ: Bowlers Who Could Trouble Virat Kohli in ICC Champions Trophy 2025

The match served as a reminder that past success does not guarantee future victories. For Pakistan to reclaim their glory, they must learn from their mistakes and approach the remaining matches aggressively.

Check out the Champions Trophy Schedule, Champions Trophy Live Score, Champions Trophy Squads , Champions Trophy Stats Champions Trophy Tour, Champions Trophy Venues & Champions Trophy Latest News here!