Babar Azam, the leading batsman for Pakistan, did not deliver a noteworthy performance while opening the innings in the first ODI against New Zealand. The 30-year-old was dismissed for a mere 10 runs by Michael Bracewell during the tri-series opener held at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore. As Pakistan pursued a challenging target of 331 runs, Babar partnered with Fakhar Zaman at the start of the innings. Although they began reasonably well, Bracewell's intervention led to Babar's dismissal, marking the seventh time he has been out by this bowler in international matches. The Pakistan star misjudged his shot, resulting in a catch at mid-wicket to Glenn Phillips.

Babar has not managed to score a century in his last 19 ODI innings, with his last three-figure score occurring against Nepal, a non-Test-playing nation, during the Asia Cup 2023. Nevertheless, he continues to receive strong support from both the captain and the team management.

The 30-year-old has faced criticism from fans due to his recent lackluster performances with the bat.

Earlier, Glenn Phillips cracked a maiden century to lift New Zealand to 330-6 against Pakistan in the tri-series opener in Lahore on Saturday.

Phillips hit 106 not out from 74 balls, with seven sixes and six boundaries, after New Zealand won the toss and batted. He was ably supported by Daryl Mitchell with 81 and Kane Williamson (58).

During a press conference, Mohammad Rizwan was asked about Pakistan’s opening combination, and he responded with a clever reference to Babar Azam’s famous moniker, ‘King’.

"Iske jawaab mein woh baat ki thi na, 'King kar lega'." (The answer is, there was a line 'King will do it'.)," said Rizwan.

“Babar's place in the team will remain unaffected”

Babar, who relinquished his captaincy following last year's T20 World Cup, is anticipated to take on the role of opening batsman in the forthcoming ICC mega event, as Saim Ayub has been sidelined from the tournament due to an injury. Nevertheless, former Pakistan cricketer Basit Ali has indicated that the opening slot might serve as a justification for Babar should he underperform in the Champions Trophy.

"Regardless of his performance in the Champions Trophy, Babar's position in the team will remain secure. I sincerely hope he excels. If he succeeds, he will claim that he played for Pakistan. Conversely, if he does not perform well, he may argue that he was compelled to open the innings," Basit remarked on his YouTube channel.

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