![Babar Azam not to open in Champions Trophy? [Source: @arieba_chaudryy/X.Com]](https://onecricketnews.akamaized.net/parth-editor/oc-dashboard/news-images-prod/1738148734828_BabarnottoopeninCT.jpg?type=tq)
Babar Azam not to open in Champions Trophy? [Source: @arieba_chaudryy/X.Com]
The Champions Trophy is getting closer with each day and Pakistan is yet to announce their squad for the mega event In-fact, Pakistan is the only team which is yet to reveal their side as the fans await the announcement. The defending champion will play a triangular series prior to the Champions Trophy and the selectors will announce the same squad for both the events.
Over the last few days, there have been many rumours circulating on the Pakistan Champions Trophy squad. With Saim Ayub likely to be ruled out of the entire tournament due to an ankle injury, the selectors are pondering upon including Fakhar Zaman at the opening slot. However, they are also contemplating on promoting Babar Azam at the top of the order, a decision which has raised quite a few eyebrows.
Babar advised not to open in Champions Trophy
As per reports by Samaa TV journalist, Qadir Khawaja, the Pakistan selection committee has been advised not to open with Babar Azam in the Champions Trophy. The person feels that only players who have prior opening experience should bat at the top, and Babar's ability should be utilised in the middle order.
The reports state that a PCB meeting will take place today where the potential inclusion of Imam-ul-Haq will be discussed. Imam used to regularly open under Babar Azam's captaincy but hasn't represented the side since the time Saim Ayub cemented his place as the permanent opener.
Other potential inclusions in the squad
Power-hitter, Usman Khan is currently training with former cricketer, Abdul Razzaq and is working on his power-game, something which Pakistan lack at the moment. He could be a surprise inclusion in the side.
Also, there are talks related to the inclusion of Khushdil Shah in the side, as Pakistan aim for an explosive middle-order heading into the mega event.
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