Basit Ali Names Pakistan’s Ideal Opening Pair for Champions Trophy, Warns of Tough Challenge Ahead

Islamabad: Former cricketer Basit Ali has weighed in on Pakistan’s opening combination for the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy, suggesting Test captain Shan Masood as a potential opener if young Saim Ayub remains unavailable due to injury.

Pakistan is the only team yet to finalize its squad for the high-stakes tournament, with Ayub’s fitness being a key factor in the delay. The left-handed batter suffered an ankle injury during Pakistan’s recent Test series in South Africa while chasing the ball alongside teammate Aamer Jamal. Following the incident, Ayub traveled to London for advanced treatment of his ankle fracture.

Discussing Pakistan’s possible opening duo, Basit stated that if Ayub recovers in time, he should partner Fakhar Zaman at the top of the order. However, if Ayub is ruled out, Masood should step in rather than the out-of-form Abdullah Shafique.

“If Saim is fit, he and Fakhar make the best opening pair. But if he’s unavailable, then Shan Masood should open. After them, Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan will follow, forming the core of Pakistan’s batting lineup,” Basit shared on his YouTube channel.

Masood’s last ODI appearance was in May 2023 against New Zealand. In nine ODI matches, he has scored 163 runs at a modest average of 18.11.

Basit also stressed the importance of including a spin-bowling all-rounder in Pakistan’s squad, advocating for experienced all-rounder Shadab Khan’s return.

“Shadab Khan is crucial at this stage. Pakistan needs a spin all-rounder to balance the team,” he remarked.

Shadab last played an ODI during the 2023 World Cup but has since been sidelined, focusing on domestic cricket. Over his 70-match ODI career, he has scored 855 runs at an average of 25.90 and taken 85 wickets at a bowling average of 34.82, with an economy rate of 5.24.

With Pakistan set to face top-ranked teams like India and New Zealand in the group stage, Basit acknowledged that the road ahead won’t be easy.

“Pakistan’s fate could be decided in the first two games. This won’t be an easy tournament,” he warned.

Pakistan’s final squad announcement remains eagerly anticipated, with fans awaiting clarity on Ayub’s fitness and potential team selections ahead of the marquee event.

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