Champions Trophy: Rizwan Declares Babar the Ideal Opener

Karachi, Feb 18 (NationPress) As the Champions Trophy opener approaches on Wednesday, Pakistan's captain Mohammad Rizwan highlighted the importance of enhanced awareness and professionalism in the national team’s strategy for high-pressure tournaments. With the team set to clash against New Zealand in their third match this month following two losses in the Tri-series, Rizwan acknowledged the difficulties that have hindered Pakistan’s performance in ICC events recently, while expressing confidence in his squad’s capabilities.

During a press briefing at Karachi’s National Stadium, Rizwan discussed the inconsistent outcomes of Pakistan in global tournaments. Since their victory in the Champions Trophy in 2017, Pakistan has reached the T20 World Cup semifinal in 2021 and the final in 2022 but has generally struggled in ICC events, frequently being eliminated in the group stages. “On a personal level, I think we need to improve our awareness and professionalism,” Rizwan remarked. “Even now, we have players from whom our people might have less hope but the outside world is watching our players and talking about them,” he elaborated.

He further acknowledged that while local fans may have doubts about certain players, the international cricket community recognizes and respects their skills.

When questioned about Pakistan’s reputation for excelling as underdogs, Rizwan humorously replied, “If this is how we can win, then you should underrate us only.” He expressed confidence in the team’s work ethic, bravery, and intelligence, asserting that divine support would lead them to the desired outcomes.

Regarding the team’s structure and tactical decisions, Rizwan stated that the core lineup remains steady. “When Babar Azam was captain, we reached a semifinal and a final, but we are striving to achieve that elusive one percent,” he mentioned.

One of the focal points has been the opening batting partnership, with Rizwan clarifying Babar Azam's role. “When you assess the conditions and determine what is best for the team, then it is Babar who should open,” he asserted. “We do have other options, but considering the conditions, Babar is the right choice to open. We are uncertain about reports of Babar not opening the batting. We prefer genuine openers, but given the team’s requirements, we decided that Babar should open as he is a technically proficient batter. He is our opener.”

The choice to continue with Babar as an opener was driven by strategic factors, including local conditions and the necessity for a left-right batting combination. “We required someone to handle the spinners, and Babar can manage that. He is a solid and technical player,” Rizwan explained.

Pakistan’s leading pacer Haris Rauf sustained a muscular injury in his lower chest wall during the tri-series, which kept him out of the last two matches. However, Mohammad Rizwan has confirmed that the bowler has regained his fitness and is keen to perform at his peak in the Champions Trophy.

“He is approximately 80 percent fit and managed to bowl six to eight overs yesterday. Earlier, he was at 60 percent, but now he is back to full rhythm. He worked hard at the gym, bowled with intensity, and assured us he felt no discomfort. We are optimistic he will be completely fit,” Rizwan added.

Pakistan will first face New Zealand, followed by a highly anticipated encounter against India on February 23 in Dubai, before taking on Bangladesh on February 27.