Babar Azam to Open Batting for Pakistan in 2025 Champions Trophy

Feb, 19 2025

Pakistani cricket fans, mark your calendars. As the 2025 Champions Trophy approaches, all eyes are on Babar Azam, who will be opening the batting for Pakistan. Captain Mohammad Rizwan confirmed, amid much speculation over Babar's recent form, that the star batter will maintain his spot at the top of the lineup. Babar seemed quite content with this decision, which hinges heavily on maintaining a strategic left-right combination to optimize their batting strategy.

The decision comes on the heels of a noteworthy tweak to Pakistan's strategy. Originally planned as a batting middle-order powerhouse, Babar found his way to the top due to Saim Ayub's unfortunate injury during the tense South Africa tour. Now, paired with Fakhar Zaman, Babar hopes to bring equilibrium and momentum to the team’s innings right from the start.

A Challenge and an Opportunity

Despite Babar's modest score tally of 62 runs over three matches in a recent tri-series involving South Africa and New Zealand, Rizwan remains unflinching. He firmly believes in Babar's technical skill set and his invaluable role in the team’s ambitions. Rizwan underscored the need for a balanced left-right hand combo, especially when playing in familiar home conditions.

This strategic focus brings a sense of nostalgia and excitement as Pakistan prepares to host the Champions Trophy for the first time in nearly three decades. Following a challenging period of cricket isolation after 2009, the tournament signifies more than just a sporting event; it’s a testimony to Pakistan's resilient cricket spirit. The squad, which includes standout players like Fakhar Zaman, Kamran Ghulam, Saud Shakeel, and Haris Rauf, is honing every aspect of their game, eyeing the prize.

Haris Rauf’s return from injury gives the squad a further boost in confidence and capability—a much-needed enhancement as they brace for encounters with cricket heavyweights India, New Zealand, and Bangladesh.

Rizwan also made it clear that the team’s strength lies in its collective effort and resilience. He encouraged fans to look beyond the star power of him and Babar, emphasizing the hard work and grit demonstrated by all 15 members of the team. As Pakistan gears up to defend their Champions Trophy title, one thing is certain: the cricketing world is set for an exciting spectacle.