Babar Azam’s Batting Position Debate: Mohammad Amir Advocates for No. 3 Role in ODIs

Former Pakistan pacer Mohammad Amir has expressed strong reservations about Babar Azam’s role as an opener in One Day Internationals (ODIs), arguing that the star batter is more effective at the No. 3 position. This debate over Babar Azam’s batting position has gained traction, especially after his recent struggles as an opener in the tri-series against New Zealand and South Africa.

During a recent interview, Amir emphasized Babar Azam’s strengths as a No. 3 batter, where he excels at anchoring the innings and building partnerships. “Babar’s strength lies at No. 3, where he knows how to construct an innings. The role of an opener in ODIs and Tests is different from T20s,” Amir stated.

Amir drew a parallel to his own experience, saying, “If I don’t get to bowl with the new ball, I can’t utilize my strength. Similarly, Babar’s strength is at No. 3. In ODIs, an opener has to adapt to different phases—taking chances in the first 10 overs and building partnerships in the next 10. Babar is a big player, but his natural position is No. 3.”

This sentiment was echoed by former Pakistan captain Mohammad Hafeez, who also opposed Babar Azam’s promotion as an opener for the upcoming ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025. Hafeez suggested that the team management should consider Abdullah Shafique, Imam-ul-Haq, or Shan Masood to open alongside Fakhar Zaman, allowing Babar to return to his preferred No. 3 spot.

“Shan Masood, Imam-ul-Haq, or Abdullah Shafique—take any one as opener and let Babar Azam play at No. 3 in the Champions Trophy. Make things easier for everyone,” Hafeez wrote on X (formerly Twitter).

Babar Azam’s recent performances as an opener have sparked this debate. In the tri-series, he managed scores of 10 (23), 23 (19), and 29 (34) in three matches, including the final in Karachi. These underwhelming outings have raised concerns about his suitability for the opening role, especially with the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 on the horizon.

Historically, Babar Azam has been a dominant force at No. 3 in ODIs. In 104 matches at this position, he has scored 5,416 runs at an impressive average of 60.17 and a strike rate of 88.33, including 29 half-centuries and 19 centuries. These statistics underscore his effectiveness in the No. 3 role, further fueling the argument for his return to this position.

As Pakistan prepares for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, the debate over Babar Azam’s batting position continues to intensify. With former players like Mohammad Amir and Mohammad Hafeez advocating for his return to No. 3, the team management faces a critical decision to optimize their batting lineup for the prestigious tournament.