In June, the ninth edition of the T20 World Cup is set to get underway in the West Indies and USA, and Pakistan will arrive hoping to add another crown to their 2009 victory.
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In April, Pakistan took on a weakened New Zealand side in a five-match home T20I series which ended level at 2-2, before defeating Ireland 2-1. Later this month, they will travel to England for their final preparations before the tournament.
There has been much discussion over the Pakistan squad, particularly around the batting positions of players like Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan and Saim Ayub.
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Ramiz Raja recommends Mohammad Rizwan-Babar Azam opening combination for T20 World Cup
In the recent past, Pakistan's opening combination has been captain Babar Azam and wicketkeeper Mohammad Rizwan. However, with the emergence of the exciting Saim Ayub and questions over whether the current pair is suited to the demands of modern-day T20 cricket there have been suggestions that these two are not Pakistan's best option.
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On Sunday, former Pakistan international and ex-chairman of the PCB provided his opinion on Pakistan's problem. He was of the opinion that Saim Ayub has not impressed enough in national colours to start in the T20 World Cup, and that Babar and Rizwan should open instead.
Ramiz Raja "I don't think Pakistan should continue with Saim. He has been given too many chances and you have to do better in international cricket. He is undercooked. You need to revert to the opening pair of Mohammad Rizwan and Babar Azam because that is Pakistan's strength and…
— Saj Sadiq (@SajSadiqCricket) May 26, 2024
Saim does not have a good record in T20 internationals, but has proven his worth as a T20 opener in franchise leagues across the world. He provides Pakistan with a left-handed option, and part-time spin bowling as well.
| Name | Innings | Runs | Average | Strike Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Babar Azam | 81 | 2836 | 39.4 | 130.9 |
| Mohammad Rizwan | 67 | 2928 | 55.2 | 131.0 |
| Saim Ayub | 15 | 229 | 15.3 | 126.5 |
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