As Pakistan prepares for the tri-series final against New Zealand in Karachi this Friday, Mohammad Rizwan is fully backing Babar Azam, encouraging the star batsman to regain his top form. While scoring runs in the final would be a great boost, the main goal is the Champions Trophy, where Pakistan is counting on its best batsman to shine.

Babar has faced challenges in all formats, and his ODI performance—usually his strong suit—has also dipped. Since the Asia Cup kicked off in August 2023, he’s averaged 42.90 in 25 ODIs, which is a noticeable decline from his usual high standards.

This series hasn’t helped him turn things around. He only managed 10 runs in the first match against New Zealand, and during Pakistan’s record-breaking chase of 353 runs against South Africa, he started well but was out for 23 after being trapped in front by Wiaan Mulder. Rizwan feels that the pressure of expectations has unfairly intensified Babar’s challenges.

“Babar has scored so many runs for Pakistan that we expect him to hit a hundred every game,” Rizwan mentioned.

“If we don’t hold him to those extreme standards, you’ll see he’s still making valuable contributions. As a captain, I have high expectations of him too because of his past achievements. There’s definitely extra pressure, and I’m sure he feels it.

"But if you look at his innings in South Africa, he’s still scoring runs. It’s not like he has major technical issues; he’s just being tested. I believe he’ll come through this.”

Babar's role at the start

Babar's comeback is getting a bit tricky with his recent move to the opening position in ODIs, a spot he hasn't played in for about ten years. With Saim Ayub injured and Abdullah Shafique not in great form, Pakistan decided to give Babar a shot at the top. This decision is being closely watched as the Champions Trophy kicks off on February 19.

Rizwan backed the choice, pointing out that Babar's solid technique makes him a great fit to handle the early swing and seam. “When Abdullah Shafique got out early in South Africa, Babar had to face the new ball anyway. He managed the seam and swing well, allowing us to go on the attack later. So, we figured it made sense to have our most technically sound player open instead of risking someone less experienced.”

Even though Pakistan has other players who could open, Rizwan admitted that losing Ayub was a big hit. “Saim Ayub was a massive loss for us, not just as a batsman but also in the field since he was one of our top fielders and could bowl a few overs. His absence really shook things up, so we opted for the safety of Babar Azam, our best batter. If the ball swings, he knows how to handle it.”

How well Babar adjusts to this new role could be crucial for Pakistan's plans in the Champions Trophy. With the final against New Zealand coming up, everyone will be watching to see if the former captain can get back into his groove at the crease.

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