KARACHI: Pakistan’s star batter Babar Azam is set to open the innings alongside Fakhar Zaman in the upcoming tri-series ODIs and Champions Trophy 2025, sources revealed.

Babar, who has primarily played at number three, will now take on a role similar to legendary Indian cricketer Sachin Tendulkar. Sachin, who debuted in 1989 as a middle-order batter, transitioned to an opening role in 1994-95 and flourished in the position.

According to reliable sources, head coach Aqib Javed, batting coach Shahid Aslam, and captain Mohammad Rizwan convinced Babar to take on the opener’s role in both Tests and ODIs. The team management believes he can replicate Sachin’s impact as an opener for Pakistan.

Babar recently opened in the second Test against South Africa after regular opener Saim Ayub suffered an injury. Partnering with Shan Masood, he scored a half-century. However, in ODIs, he has previously opened only twice in 2015, before settling into the number three and four positions. In T20Is, he was a regular opener for over two years alongside Rizwan before their pair was split due to strike rate concerns.

Pakistan’s Champions Trophy squad includes only one regular opener, Fakhar Zaman. Selector Asad Shafiq stated that both Saud Shakeel and Babar Azam are considered potential opening options, with a final decision to be made before the tournament begins.

Saud showcased his skills as an opener during PSL 9 while playing for Quetta Gladiators, but cricket experts highlight the difference between T20 and 50-over formats, noting that Saud traditionally bats in the middle order at number five or six.

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