- Babar Azam will open for Pakistan in the tri-series and Champions Trophy.
- Saim Ayub is ruled out due to injury.
- Pakistan’s management wants to test Babar as an opener.
- The tri-series will be crucial for Pakistan’s final team selection.
- A strong opening partnership is essential for Pakistan’s success in the Champions Trophy 2025.
Babar Azam to Open for Pakistan in Champions Trophy 2025
Pakistan captain Mohammad Rizwan has revealed that Babar Azam will open the innings in the upcoming ODI tri-series against New Zealand and South Africa. This decision will also impact Pakistan’s strategy for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.
Saim Ayub Ruled Out Due to Injury
Pakistan has faced a setback with Saim Ayub being ruled out of both the tri-series and the Champions Trophy. He failed to recover from a leg injury, forcing the team to explore other opening options.
Pakistan’s Opening Pair Confirmed
According to Rizwan, “King will open for Pakistan.” In Pakistan’s cricket circles, King refers to Babar Azam. This was first mentioned by Hasan Ali in a podcast.
The selection committee had initially considered three players for the opening slot:
- Babar Azam
- Fakhar Zaman
- Saud Shakeel
With Saim Ayub unavailable, the team decided on Babar Azam and Fakhar Zaman as the first-choice openers.
Babar Azam’s Performance as an Opener
Babar’s Experience at No.3
Babar Azam has been one of the most successful batters at No.3 in ODIs. His statistics at this position are impressive:
- 5,416 runs
- Average of 60.17
Limited Opening Experience
Despite his success at No.3, Babar has rarely opened in ODIs:
- Only 2 matches as an opener
- Scored just 26 runs
Pakistan’s team management wants to test him at the top, and the upcoming tri-series will be a key opportunity.
Rizwan’s Confidence in Pakistan’s Squad
Strong Team Selection
Mohammad Rizwan expressed confidence in Pakistan’s squad for the tri-series and the Champions Trophy. He emphasized that the selected players are the best options available.
Importance of the Tri-Series
The tri-series against New Zealand and South Africa is not just a preparation event. It will help the team:
- Test new strategies
- Build team chemistry
- Finalize the playing XI for the Champions Trophy
Rizwan stated, “It is important to give our best in the tri-series and the Champions Trophy.”
Pakistan’s Road to the Champions Trophy 2025
Challenges in the Tournament
Pakistan will face strong competition in the Champions Trophy 2025. With teams like India, England, and Australia in the mix, the tournament will be highly competitive.
Crucial Role of Openers
A strong opening partnership is vital for success. If Babar Azam and Fakhar Zaman perform well, Pakistan will have a solid foundation in crucial matches.
Pakistan’s Key Players for the Tournament
Some of Pakistan’s most important players for the Champions Trophy include:
- Babar Azam (Opener, key batsman)
- Fakhar Zaman (Aggressive opener)
- Mohammad Rizwan (Captain, wicketkeeper-batsman)
- Shaheen Afridi (Pace attack leader)
- Agha Salman (All-rounder, key spinner)
Pakistan’s decision to open with Babar Azam and Fakhar Zaman will be tested in the tri-series. If the strategy works, it could be the game-changer in the Champions Trophy 2025. With a strong squad and clear plans, Pakistan is aiming for glory in the prestigious tournament.
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!
ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Matches
Pakistan vs New Zealand - 1st Match, Group A | Bangladesh vs India - 2nd Match, Group A | Afghanistan vs South Africa - 3rd Match, Group B | Australia vs England - 4th Match, Group B | Pakistan vs India - 5th Match, Group A | Bangladesh vs New Zealand - 6th Match, Group A | Australia vs South Africa - 7th Match, Group B | Afghanistan vs England - 8th Match, Group B | Pakistan vs Bangladesh - 9th Match, Group A | Afghanistan vs Australia - 10th Match, Group B | England vs South Africa - 11th Match, Group B | New Zealand vs India - 12th Match, Group A | TBA vs TBA, 1st Semi-Final | TBA vs TBA, 2nd Semi-Final | TBA vs TBA, Final |
ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Teams
PAKISTAN | NEW ZEALAND | BANGLADESH | INDIA | AFGHANISTAN | SOUTH AFRICA | AUSTRALIA | ENGLAND
