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Pakistan’s interim head coach, Aqib Javed, has thrown his weight behind Babar Azam opening the innings for the national team ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. However, Javed also issued a stern warning, making it clear that the star batter needs to deliver big performances, or else changes could be on the horizon.
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Babar’s Opening Role Under Scrutiny
Pakistan recently suffered a five-wicket defeat to New Zealand in the Tri-Series final at Karachi, failing to defend 242 runs as the Kiwis comfortably chased the target in 45.2 overs. Following the loss, Babar’s poor form at the top of the order has come under heavy criticism, with many questioning the decision to make him open.
“Babar Should Utilize the Powerplay” – Aqib Javed
Speaking at the post-match press conference, Aqib Javed defended the decision to promote Babar Azam as an opener. He insisted that since pitches are not troubling batters early on, Pakistan’s best player should capitalize on the powerplay.
“Our rationale behind the change was that if you look at the away series against South Africa, Babar Azam had to bat in the first over in all games. Then Saim got injured, and he had to open in Tests too. These pitches are not troubling the batters at the start, so we wanted our best batter to make good use of the powerplay,” said Javed.
“I am hopeful that he will play a big innings in important matches,” he added.
Babar’s Struggles Against Pace Continue
Despite the backing from Javed, Babar Azam has been under immense pressure due to his poor performances at the top of the order.
- In the Tri-Series final, Babar managed just 29 runs off 34 balls before falling to Nathan Smith in the 12th over.
- Across three innings, he scored just 62 runs at an average of 20.67 and a strike rate of 81.58.
- Worryingly, Babar was dismissed inside the powerplay in all three innings, struggling against pace bowling.
With his form dipping, concerns are rising over whether Babar should continue opening or return to his preferred No. 3 position.
Pakistan’s Champions Trophy Campaign Begins on February 19
The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 will be held from February 19 to March 9, with Pakistan hosting matches across three venues. However, due to the hybrid model, India will play all their matches in Dubai.
Pakistan’s Group Stage Fixtures:
- February 19 – vs New Zealand (Karachi)
- February 23 – vs India (Dubai)
- February 27 – vs Bangladesh (Rawalpindi)
With Pakistan facing tough competition in Group A, all eyes will be on Babar Azam to see whether he can turn his poor form around—or if Aqib Javed’s warning becomes reality.
