Who Will Open the Batting for Pakistan in the Champions Trophy?

In a bold strategic move, Pakistan has decided to reshuffle its opening order ahead of the 2025 Champions Trophy. According to sources within the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), star batter, Babar Azam will be tasked with opening the batting alongside seasoned opener Fakhar Zaman.

This decision, which adds a fresh dynamic to Pakistan’s batting lineup, signals a shift in tactics aimed at maximizing the team’s firepower at the top of the order, especially after an untimely injury to Saim Ayub.

Babar Azam and Fakhar Zaman are no strangers to partnering up, having shared several memorable partnerships in the past. Their synergy at the crease has been instrumental in shaping Pakistan’s fortunes in white-ball cricket in recent years but this will be the first time the duo will open an ODI innings together. While Fakhar’s explosive batting provides rapid starts, Babar’s composure and classical stroke play ensure stability—a combination that has often frustrated opposition bowlers.

With Fakhar’s ability to dominate the powerplay and Babar’s ability to anchor the innings, the duo is expected to give Pakistan a strong platform in the tournament. The two last shared time on the crease in an ODI during the 2023 World Cup against England in Kolkata. 

Babar, who usually bats at No. 3 in ODIs, has thrived as an opener in T20 cricket, showcasing his ability to adapt and take charge early. Moving him up the order in the Champions Trophy reflects a calculated effort to ensure that Pakistan’s best batter faces the maximum number of deliveries.

Fakhar, on the other hand, remains one of Pakistan’s most aggressive openers despite his recent omission from the team. His ability to unsettle bowlers early and capitalize on powerplay restrictions will complement Babar’s more measured approach. Together, they bring a balance of aggression and consistency that Pakistan will rely on heavily in the marquee event.

Additionally, this move places added pressure on the middle order, which must step up in case of early setbacks. Players like Mohammad Rizwan, Kamran Ghulam, and Salman Ali Agha will play pivotal roles in ensuring that the team builds on the foundation laid by the openers.

Babar’s Form Leading Into the Tournament

Babar Azam’s shaky form with the bat has been the talk of the town leading up to the Champions Trophy. While he has shown glimpses of his old self in recent series against Australia and South Africa, he has failed to build up enough confidence ahead of the competition. With the added pressure of opening the innings, Babar may face a make-or-break scenario heading into the latter part of his career.

The Champions Trophy 2025, which begins on February 19 with Pakistan facing New Zealand in Karachi, will once again test Babar’s ability to shoulder his side’s scoring burden.