Salman Butt comments on Babar Azam playing as opener in Champions Trophy

Former Pakistan captain Salman Butt has raised concerns about the rumors suggesting that Babar Azam might open the innings in the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy 2025.

The announcement of Pakistan’s squad for the upcoming tri-nation series and the Champions Trophy is just around the corner, sparking various rumors in the media.

There are speculations that Babar Azam will take on the role of Pakistan’s opening batter in the absence of Saim Ayub, who suffered an unfortunate ankle injury during the second Test against South Africa.

However, Salman Butt believes such a move would not only be unfair to Babar but could also backfire strategically.

“I hope it’s only a rumor, and the selectors are not thinking this way because it’s unfair and, strategically, it can backfire,” said Butt in a video on his YouTube channel.

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“We used proper openers in the difficult conditions, and now when we are going to play in suitable conditions where batters can score runs, where Pakistan needs a good start from the top and stability in the middle overs.

“Babar Azam can provide that stability [in the middle-order] to last in 50-over cricket.”

He further questioned the selectors’ thought process, highlighting the lack of a solid middle-order backup for Babar.

“Why are you trying to expose Babar early? Do we even have a backup for him in the middle order? Didn’t we see in the South Africa series how crucial Babar and Rizwan’s partnerships in the middle were?” he questioned.

“I think we should go with proper openers, and Babar Azam should play at his usual position. That’s where he’s proven to be most effective.”

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