A Team in Turmoil
For Pakistan, the Champions Trophy 2025 is more than just another ICC event—it is an opportunity to reclaim their status among cricket’s elite. However, recent performances have been far from inspiring. Inconsistent World Cup campaigns, constant changes in captaincy, coaching staff, and selectors have left the team unsettled. To make matters worse, Saim Ayub, Pakistan’s first-choice opener, has been ruled out due to injury, further complicating their preparations.
The Babar Azam Experiment
In a bold move, captain Mohammad Rizwan has hinted at Babar Azam opening the innings for Pakistan in the tournament. Babar, who has predominantly played at No. 3, has an impressive record at that position, amassing 5,416 runs at an average of 60.17. However, as an opener in ODIs, he has played just two innings, scoring 26 runs—a stark contrast to his usual dominance.
When asked about the new opening pair, Rizwan responded with a cryptic but confident remark:
“King kar lega.” (“The King will do it.”)
A Page from Indian Cricket’s History?
According to PTI reports, Pakistan’s selectors might have drawn inspiration from Sachin Tendulkar’s transformation. The Indian legend was initially a middle-order batter before moving up to open the innings in 1994 against New Zealand in Auckland. Tendulkar smashed 82 off 49 balls, and the rest, as they say, was history.
The selectors believe Babar Azam, with his vast T20 experience as an opener, could emulate Tendulkar’s success in ODIs.
The Turning Point: A Test Match Gamble
Interestingly, Babar’s potential shift to opening gained traction during Pakistan’s Cape Town Test when he and Shan Masood had to open due to Saim Ayub’s injury. The duo put on a solid partnership, prompting selectors to consider Babar for the role in white-ball cricket.
With Pakistan facing an uphill battle in the Champions Trophy, this high-risk, high-reward move could define their campaign. Whether this gamble pays off or backfires remains to be seen, but one thing is certain—Pakistan is ready to take a bold step in its quest for redemption.
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