Legendary fast bowler Wasim Akram has endorsed the idea of star batter Babar Azam as Opener For Pakistan in the upcoming 2025 Champions Trophy. On January 31, Pakistan announced their squad for the tri-nation series. And the Champions Trophy. Opening batter Fakhar Zaman made a return to the 15-member squad. While Saim Ayub was excluded due to an ankle injury. National selector Asad Shafiq mentioned that either Babar Azam or Saud Shakeel. Would open the innings for Pakistan depending on the match conditions.
Now, Wasim Akram, former Pakistan captain, has backed the notion of having Babar Azam as Opener. Alongside Fakhar Zaman in the Champions Trophy 2025. “I would like to see [Mohammad] Rizwan bat in the middle order. And perhaps Babar should open the innings. Babar has an excellent technique. If he faces 50 overs and scores a century, the batting will revolve around him.” Akram said during a media interaction.
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The squad also saw the unexpected return of all-rounders Khushdil Shah and Faheem Ashraf. A decision that has sparked considerable criticism. Wasim Akram expressed his surprise at the inclusion of Ashraf. Noting, “I wish him all the best; he’s a talented cricketer. But in his last 20 matches, his bowling average is 100. And his batting average is 9.”
Speaking at a press conference on the sidelines of the ongoing ILT20 in Dubai. Wasim Akram voiced strong criticism regarding the selection of Ashraf and Khushdil Shah. He also expressed concern over the PCB’s decision to select only one spinner for the squad. Especially when India had selected four spin bowlers for the tournament.
