Pakistan’s former captain Mohammad Hafeez has advised that Babar Azam should bat at No. 3 instead of opening in the upcoming Champions Trophy. Hafeez believes that Babar should not be used as an opener and has recommended the management consider other options for the opening slot.
PCB Announces 15-Member Squad for Champions Trophy 2025
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has announced a 15-member squad for the Champions Trophy, with Fakhar Zaman being the only specialist opener included. This led to speculation about who would partner Fakhar at the top of the order. However, Babar Azam opened the innings in the recently concluded tri-nation series, indicating that he might continue in this role during the Champions Trophy.
Babar Azam’s Underwhelming Performance as an Opener
Despite opening in the tri-series, Babar Azam struggled to deliver significant performances, scoring just 10, 23, and 29 runs in three matches. His lack of big scores has raised concerns about his suitability as an opener in crucial tournaments.
Hafeez’s Advice: Shift Babar to No. 3, Consider Other Openers
In light of Babar’s recent form, Hafeez has suggested that the team management should play Babar Azam at No. 3 instead. He proposed that Abdullah Shafique, Imam-ul-Haq, or Shan Masood should be considered as Fakhar Zaman’s opening partner for the Champions Trophy.
Pakistan’s Squad for Champions Trophy 2025
The 15-member squad for the Champions Trophy 2025 includes:
Captain: Mohammad Rizwan
Batsmen: Babar Azam, Fakhar Zaman, Kamran Ghulam, Saud Shakeel, Tayyab Tahir
All-rounders: Faheem Ashraf, Khushdil Shah, Salman Ali Agha, Usman Khan
Bowlers: Abrar Ahmed, Haris Rauf, Mohammad Hasnain, Naseem Shah, Shaheen Shah Afridi
With the Champions Trophy approaching, the debate over Babar Azam’s batting position continues. It remains to be seen whether the team management will heed Hafeez’s advice and make strategic adjustments for better results.