Saim to Open, Babar at No.3 in Tri-Series Clash

News Desk

Islamabad: Pakistan will look to carry their recent white-ball momentum into the T20I tri-series when they face Zimbabwe in the opening match on home soil on Tuesday. 

After sweeping Sri Lanka 3–0 in the ODIs under Shaheen Afridi’s captaincy, the focus now shifts to Agha Salman, who leads the Men in Green in the shortest format and hopes to begin the campaign with a convincing win.

Selection Puzzle at the Top: Farhan or Usman?

The PCB has named Sahibzada Farhan and Usman Khan as the squad’s wicketkeepers, but with Usman primarily a top-order batter, Farhan is expected to take the gloves. His recent T20I form backs the decision: the 28-year-old has scored 666 runs at a strike rate of 124 and emerged as Pakistan’s standout batter in the 2025 Asia Cup.

He is likely to open alongside Saim Ayub, who has impressed as a genuine all-round option, scoring 108 runs at a strike rate of 150 and picking up two wickets against South Africa. Babar Azam will slot in at his preferred No. 3, where he averages 44.46 with over 1,200 T20I runs.

Where Does Fakhar Zaman Fit?

Pakistan’s middle order remains unsettled, prompting selectors to revisit Fakhar Zaman’s role. With Agha Salman yet to fully establish himself with the bat and youngster Hasan Nawaz struggling for form, the experienced left-hander is being considered for the No. 4 position.

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Statistically, Fakhar’s numbers support the shift. While he averages 23.71 as a top-order batter, his returns at No. 4—26.11 at a strike rate of 153.56—suggest he could add much-needed firepower in the middle overs.

Middle-Order Dynamics and All-Round Options

Agha Salman and Abdul Samad are expected to form the core of the middle order, with Samad likely to be backed for a finishing role in the absence of Hasan Nawaz. The all-round responsibilities will fall to the in-form Mohammad Nawaz—who has had a standout 2025 with 26 wickets from 21 matches—and Faheem Ashraf.

Bowling Attack Led by Shaheen and Naseem

Despite a promising debut from Usman Tariq against South Africa, Pakistan may bring in mystery spinner Abrar Ahmed for the opening fixture. With 31 wickets in 24 T20Is at an economy of 6.77, Abrar offers control and wicket-taking threat in the middle overs.

The pace attack will be spearheaded by Shaheen Afridi and Naseem Shah, a pairing that has troubled opponents consistently. Shaheen’s ability to swing the new ball and Naseem’s versatility across all phases make them crucial weapons against Zimbabwe.

Likely Pakistan XI for the Tri-Series Opener

Pakistan’s strongest lineup appears to balance aggression at the top, experience in the middle, and variety in the bowling unit as they aim to start the tri-series with authority.