Ramiz Raja Suggests Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan as Pakistan's Openers for 2024 T20 World Cup

Former Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Ramiz Raja has proposed that Pakistan should revert to the opening pair of Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan for the upcoming 2024 T20 World Cup in the West Indies and the United States. Raja believes that young opener Saim Ayub, who played in the recent series against New Zealand, lacks the confidence and experience to perform consistently at the international level.

Raja stated that Babar and Rizwan are a "tried and tested" combination and their partnership would give Pakistan the best chance of success in the World Cup. He noted that Ayub struggled in the New Zealand series, scoring only 57 runs in four innings, and that Pakistan should go with the experienced duo of Babar and Rizwan as their openers.

Before the current team management took over, Babar and Rizwan were the designated openers for Pakistan in white-ball cricket and were one of the most prolific opening pairs in the format. Raja suggests that the experienced duo is the "safe option" and the "best chance" for Pakistan, as they have a proven track record that can provide the necessary partnership and momentum in the opening overs.

Why this matters: The decision on Pakistan's opening pair for the 2024 T20 World Cup could have a significant impact on the team's performance and chances of success in the tournament. The choice between experienced veterans and young talent will be a key factor in shaping Pakistan's strategy and approach.

Pakistan will continue to fine-tune their squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup, with upcoming tours to Ireland and England. As Raja pointed out, "Babar and Rizwan's partnership is a 'safe option' and a 'tried and tested combination' that can help Pakistan build momentum in the opening overs." The team management will have to weigh the benefits of experience against the potential of nurturing young talent as they make their decision on the opening pair for the crucial tournament.

Key Takeaways

• Ramiz Raja proposes Babar-Rizwan as Pakistan's T20 WC 2024 opening pair
• Believes young Saim Ayub lacks confidence and experience for consistent performance
• Babar-Rizwan are a "tried and tested" combo that can provide momentum
• Decision on opening pair crucial for Pakistan's T20 WC 2024 strategy
• Team management to weigh experience vs. nurturing young talent for the role