Pakistan had a disappointing campaign in the ICC Champions Trophy, suffering heavy defeats against India and New Zealand. Under the leadership of Mohammad Rizwan, the Men in Green failed to make an impact and were knocked out in the group stage.
Following this poor performance, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is reportedly set to make significant changes to the squad. Three prominent players—Babar Azam, Naseem Shah, and Tayyab Tahir—are likely to be dropped from the ODI setup before the next ICC event.
1. Babar Azam – The Struggling Batting Star
| Criterion | Runs | Average/SR |
|---|---|---|
| Across formats since 2024 | 1501 | 31.93/82.51 |
| In ICC events since 2022 | 653 | 32.65/86.49 |
Babar Azam has been the backbone of Pakistan’s batting lineup for years. However, his recent performances in major tournaments have raised concerns. Scoring only 653 runs in 22 innings at a modest average of 32.65, Babar has struggled to deliver in crucial ICC events.
His overall form has also taken a hit, with his strike rate and confidence looking below par. Given Pakistan’s poor showing in the Champions Trophy, Babar might be one of the senior players to face the axe before the next major tournament.
2. Naseem Shah – A Decline in Wicket-Taking Ability
| Criterion | Wickets | Average/SR |
|---|---|---|
| ODIs since 2024 | 15 | 38.60/38.2 |
Once regarded as one of Pakistan’s most promising pacers, Naseem Shah has struggled in recent ODIs. With just 15 wickets at an alarming average of 38.60, his impact in the white-ball format has significantly declined.
His economy rate of 6.06 further adds to the problem, making him an expensive option for Pakistan. While senior pacers like Shaheen Afridi might retain their spots, Naseem Shah could be dropped as Pakistan looks to rebuild its bowling attack.
3. Tayyab Tahir – A Middle-Order Failure
| Criterion | Runs | Average |
|---|---|---|
| In ODIs | 134 | 26.80 |
| In Champions Trophy | 5 | 2.50 |
Tayyab Tahir earned his place in Pakistan’s ODI squad after impressive performances in List-A cricket. However, his transition to international cricket has been far from smooth. Scoring just five runs in two crucial matches against New Zealand and India, Tayyab failed to justify his selection.
With Pakistan aiming to revamp their middle order, his underwhelming returns could see him dropped from the squad after the Champions Trophy.
Conclusion
Pakistan’s early exit from the ICC Champions Trophy has triggered discussions about major team changes. The PCB is expected to take strict action, and seasoned players like Babar Azam, Naseem Shah, and Tayyab Tahir might be shown the door as Pakistan prepares for upcoming ICC events.
Would these changes bring a fresh start for Pakistan cricket? Only time will tell.
