PCB is considering alterations to Babar and Rizwan's batting order for the upcoming T20 series against New Zealand.
Sources indicate that both the team management and selectors have reached a consensus on providing rest to Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan.
In preparation for the T20 World Cup 2024 and with the aim of providing more opportunities to younger players, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is contemplating adjustments to the batting order for the upcoming New Zealand series, as per sources revealed to Geo News on Thursday.
The team management and selectors have reportedly agreed to give Saim Ayub a chance to open, either partnering with Babar Azam or Mohammad Rizwan. If Babar takes the opening position, Rizwan is slated to bat one down. Conversely, if Rizwan opens, Babar will play at number three. There is also consensus on resting the star duo for a couple of matches during the series.
Suggestions have been made to have Fakhar Zaman at number four, followed by Iftikhar Ahmed and Azam Khan. In terms of fielding duties, Rizwan will be in charge while Azam Khan will handle the wicketkeeping responsibilities.
The Babar-Rizwan opening pair has been a longstanding force for Pakistan, winning numerous matches. However, there were considerations about whether to maintain the same order or provide opportunities to younger talents. The PCB has introduced several new players in the squad for the New Zealand series under the leadership of the new captain, Shaheen Afridi.
The 17-member squad includes emerging players such as Abbas Afridi, Saim Ayub, Haseebullah Khan, and Sahibzada Farhan. Destructive batter Azam Khan is also part of the squad, alongside established names like Fakhar Zaman, Babar, and Rizwan.
With an eye on the T20 World Cup scheduled for June next year, teams are gearing up for the ICC tournament to be held in West Indies and the United States.
Pakistan's 2024 tour to New Zealand Schedule:
First match: New Zealand vs Pakistan, 12 January, Auckland
Second match: New Zealand vs Pakistan, 14 January, Hamilton
Third match: New Zealand vs Pakistan, 17 January, Dunedin
Fourth match: New Zealand vs Pakistan, 19 January, Christchurch
Fifth match: New Zealand vs Pakistan, 21 January, Christchurch.
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