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'Drop Babar To..,' Shahid Afridi Suggests New Opening Partner For Rizwan In PAK vs CAN

Fakhar Zaman has been batting at 4 in T20 WC [AP]Fakhar Zaman has been batting at 4 in T20 WC [AP]

This evening, Pakistan will take on Canada in their third group-stage match of the ongoing T20 World Cup. Having lost two consecutive games, Pakistan are tottering at fourth in the five-team Group A standings. 

So, this game holds significant importance for the Babar Azam-led outfit, as another defeat will result in their group-stage elimination. 

Meanwhile, legendary all-rounder Shahid Afridi has proposed a major change to Pakistan's batting lineup. 

As quoted by ESPN Cricinfo (Via ICC), Afridi reckoned Pakistan should open with Fakhar Zaman, with skipper Babar Azam demoting himself to number three. 

"Most of all, I believe Fakhar Zaman should be promoted to open the innings alongside Mohammad Rizwan, with Babar dropping down to number three."

Afridi's suggestion comes in the aftermath of Pakistan's horrendous defeat against India, where they failed to chase a paltry 120-run target. 

Considering Babar's timid approach at the top order, the ex-cricketer believes promoting an explosive batter like Fakhar might work wonders for Pakistan as he can capitalise on the field restrictions in the powerplay. 

Babar has had a torrid tournament so far, managing only 57 runs at a poor strike rate of 107.54 in two outings. His abysmal form has adversely affected Pakistan's performance, as they desperately need a win to stay alive in the competition.