WEBDESK: Former cricketer Aaqib Javed has expressed his strong support for the return of Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan to Pakistan’s ODI squad for the upcoming series against New Zealand. He believes their inclusion is essential for strengthening the team’s batting lineup and improving overall performance.
Speaking to the media, Aaqib Javed highlighted that both players have proven their abilities in high-pressure situations. He pointed out that Babar Azam’s leadership skills and Rizwan’s consistency make them valuable assets. Their experience, he stated, will play a vital role in stabilising the batting order, which has struggled in recent matches.
“The pitches here are similar to those in Australia and South Africa, where our fast bowlers dominated. If we can restrict them under 200, our experienced batting lineup, with Babar [Azam] and Rizwan back in ODIs, should secure good results,” Javed said.
According to Aaqib Javed, a mix of youth and experience is crucial for long-term success in international cricket.
Javed also defended Pakistan’s overall ODI structure, stating that the team remains settled despite concerns following the Champions Trophy.
“We carried four senior batters – Babar, Rizwan, Abdullah [Shafique], and Imam [Ul Haq] – because they provide stability. While we are making changes in T20s, our ODI setup is well-balanced,” he explained.
The upcoming ODI series against New Zealand is expected to be a tough challenge for Pakistan. Aaqib Javed emphasised that Pakistan must put forward its best combination to secure victories. He also mentioned that team selection should prioritize players who have delivered consistent performances in past series.
With Pakistan aiming to build a strong squad for future tournaments, the insights from Aaqib Javed highlight the need for strategic planning. Cricket fans and analysts will be watching closely to see if Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan make a successful comeback in the ODI series.
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