Pakistan’s Best XI for Champions Trophy Opener Against New Zealand on February 19

Pakistan’s preparations for the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy took a hit as they lost the final of the ODI Tri-Series at home on Friday. However, despite this setback, the Men in Green have been in good form, winning eight out of their last twelve ODIs since 2024. As they gear up for their high-stakes clashes against New Zealand, Bangladesh, and India, selecting the right playing XI will be crucial.

Here’s a breakdown of what Pakistan’s strongest lineup should look like for their opening match against New Zealand on February 19.

Usman Khan Should Partner Fakhar Zaman at the Top

Babar Azam’s recent struggles as an opener in ODIs—scoring just 88 runs in five innings at an average of 17.60—suggest that he is better suited at number three, where he has an impressive average of 60.18. Pakistan should instead look at Usman Khan, a natural opener who has been in excellent form in the PSL, to partner Fakhar Zaman at the top. Fakhar, with his aggressive batting style, remains the team’s first-choice opener.

Middle Order: Babar at Three, Rizwan and Agha Salman Key at Four and Five

With Babar returning to his preferred number three position, Mohammad Rizwan and Agha Salman should be Pakistan’s backbone in the middle order at four and five, respectively. Rizwan was consistent in the Tri-Series, scoring 171 runs at an average of 85.50, while Agha Salman not only contributed 219 runs at an average of 73 but also provides a useful off-spin option.

Lower Middle Order: Tayyab Tahir and Faheem Ashraf Provide Depth

Tayyab Tahir has proven to be a reliable lower middle-order batter, averaging 50.50 in four innings at number six with a strong strike rate of 127.85. Faheem Ashraf should be preferred over Khushdil Shah at number seven due to his all-round ability. Faheem played a crucial knock in the Tri-Series final and adds depth to the bowling attack.

Should Pakistan Drop Naseem Shah?

Naseem Shah’s recent performances have been below par, with only three wickets in the Tri-Series at an average of 60.33. However, given Pakistan’s limited pace-bowling options, he is still likely to retain his spot. He will be supported by Shaheen Afridi, Haris Rauf, and leg-spinner Abrar Ahmed in the bowling department.

Pakistan’s Strongest XI for the Champions Trophy Opener vs. New Zealand

• 1. Fakhar Zaman
• 2. Usman Khan
• 3. Babar Azam
• 4. Mohammad Rizwan (C/WK)
• 5. Agha Salman
• 6. Tayyab Tahir
• 7. Faheem Ashraf
• 8. Shaheen Afridi
• 9. Naseem Shah
• 10. Abrar Ahmed
• 11. Haris Rauf

With this lineup, Pakistan aims to