Pakistan coach wants Babar Azam to Open in Champions Trophy - Is it the Right Decision?

Pakistan's selectors are contemplating a strategic shift by promoting their premier batsman, Babar Azam, to open the innings in the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy.

As Pakistan take part in the Champions Trophy, the star batter of Pakistan is being considered for opening the innings, which may come as a surprise to many.

A reliable source revealed to PTI that Aaqib Javed, Pakistan's senior selector and interim head coach, along with other selectors, discussed this move with Babar following the unfortunate injury to Saim Ayub.

Saim suffered a freak accident during the second Test against South Africa in Cape Town last month, which ruled him out of action for at least two months.

"A day after Saim got injured it became clear that he would be out of cricket for at least two months, making him an unlikely starter for the Champions Trophy," the source told PTI.

Recognizing the void left by Saim's absence, selectors approached Babar about taking on the opener's role alongside Fakhar Zaman.

"Once Saim's status was clear, Aaqib and Azhar Ali had a discussion in which they asked Babar if he was ready to open with Fakhar Zaman in the 50-over matches, including the Champions Trophy," the source added.

The selectors reportedly reminded Babar of Tendulkar's remarkable career transformation after assuming the opener's role, emphasizing that he could potentially emulate the Indian maestro.

Interestingly, this discussion coincided with Babar opening alongside Shan Masood in the Cape Town Test due to Saim's injury. The two batters forged a significant partnership, further strengthening the selectors' confidence in Babar's adaptability.

Although Imam-ul-Haq and Shan Masood both were in contention for selection, the PCB selectors reverted back to Fakhar Zaman, based on the southpaw's past performances in the Champions Trophy.

Is Babar Azam the right choice to open for Pakistan?

While he has thrived in the T20 format as an opener, the dynamics of the 50-over game are different. If he successfully adapts to the role, Pakistan could witness a historic shift akin to Tendulkar's rise. Babar has been under pressure for his lack of form, but the Pakistan star can revive himself with the new role.

However, if the experiment does not pay off, it could disrupt the team's batting order ahead of a crucial tournament. The incentive for the Pakistan coaching staff may also come from Babar and Fakhar's potential right and left hand combination, which can be an added benefit for them.

Only time will tell whether this bold move will elevate Babar's career or pose a greater challenge for Pakistan's campaign in the Champions Trophy.