3 Reasons Why Salman Ali Agha Will Hold The Key For Pakistan In Champions Trophy

Why Salman Ali Agha will hold the key for Pakistan [Source: AP Photo]

When the Pakistan squad for the Champions Trophy was announced, the team lacked the X-factor and they looked weak on paper. Their star players were out of form and the host nation needed someone special to be their Messiah for the Champions Trophy. It seems they have found the answer in Salman Ali Agha.

In the virtual knockout match against South Africa, Pakistan lost 3 early wickets, chasing a tricky 353. The likes of Babar Azam and Fakhar Zaman were back in the hut, and the team looked down and out. This is when Salman Ali Agha stepped up and showcased his class and alongside captain Mohammad Rizwan kept his team alive in the chase.

He started freely and as the game progressed, increased the temp to score a brilliant hundred. With the Champions Trophy coming up, we look at 3 key reasons why he will be key to Pakistan's triumph. 

1) Stellar ODI numbers

For a player who bats in the middle order and hardly gets a chance to showcase his skills, Salman Ali Agha has brilliant numbers in ODIs.

In 32 matches, he has 851 runs, and already has a century under pressure. He averages more than 40, and is one of the most reliable batters in the Pakistan ODI team. His consistency improved in 2024, where he played 9 matches and scored 209 runs with an average of 41.80. He has improved as a player and will hold the key in the middle order.

2) The only power hitter in the middle order

This Pakistan side has too many anchors, and only two power-hitters - Fakhar Zaman at the top and Salman Ali Agha in the middle. Every team in the Champions Trophy has plethora of power-hitters, while Pakistan only has one in the middle order.

Hence, his role becomes crucial as he is someone who can strike the ball hard and can be the difference maker when things are getting out of hand, as witnessed in the match Vs South Africa. The Pakistan side will heavily rely on his hitting game to maximise the advantage on flat Pakistan pitches.

Game changer with the ball as well

Bowling stats in ODIs

The numbers might not be too promising, but when you look at the economy, it is the most impressive part about his bowling. Nowadays ODI cricket has changed and bowlers go over 6 runs per over. However, the Pakistan all-rounder conceded less than 6 runs per over and it could be a massive factor for Pakistan in the upcoming Champions Trophy.

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