Ex-Pakistan cricketer tipped to replace Babar or Rizwan in T20Is

Former Pakistan fast bowler Sohail Tanvir has ignited significant discussion among cricket enthusiasts by questioning the decision to include both Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan in the same T20 lineup. While he acknowledges their skill, Tanvir believes that their similar playing styles could impede the team's success in the fast-paced T20 format.

A game of tactics

Speaking on a local social media platform, Tanvir voiced his concerns about the current dynamics of Pakistan's T20 batting order. He stated, “Both Babar and Rizwan are quality players. But their style of play doesn’t suit modern T20 cricket.”

His critique centers on the duo’s tendency for slow starts, which can be harmful in T20 matches where quick scoring is essential. For instance, statistics reveal that in the last T20I series against England, both players averaged less than 30 runs in the powerplay. This slow approach often means that despite their ability to increase their strike rates later in the innings, it is usually too late to make a significant impact on the game's outcome. Tanvir proposed replacing one of them with a more aggressive batter, like Sahibzada Farhan, who could score runs quickly from the outset, thus setting up a better platform for the team’s success.

The changing landscape of Pakistan cricket

Historically, Pakistan's strong bowling attack has compensated for batting deficiencies. However, as Tanvir pointed out, recent inconsistencies in the bowling department have exposed vulnerabilities in the batting lineup.

“When the bowlers were doing well, the team could defend low scores or win matches,” he explained. “But now that the bowling is under pressure, the batting lineup is also failing." In the recent T20 World Cup, Pakistan's bowling average stood at 8.5 runs per over, a significant dip, highlighting the need for a balanced team strategy.

This dual struggle emphasizes an urgent need for the team to adapt, especially as the T20 format continues to evolve.

Babar and Rizwan to be replaced

Sohail Tanvir doesn’t simply criticize; he offers valuable suggestions. He encouraged both Babar and Rizwan to be replaced or to evolve their gameplay to keep up with modern T20 demands.

“They still have time to improve,” he asserted. “I'm not saying they need to hit a six every ball, but they must learn to adapt and play more attacking cricket.” By increasing their strike rates in the first six overs, where scoring is crucial, they could greatly enhance their effectiveness.

Tanvir’s insistence on adaptation reflects a keen understanding of the current cricket landscape and its requirement for innovation.

Learning from the best

Tanvir specifically urged Babar Azam to diversify his shot selection and learn from modern cricket icons like Virat Kohli and Kane Williamson. Both players have successfully adjusted their techniques to stay relevant in T20 formats, consistently scoring more than 35 runs per innings in several matches.

“Babar is a very skilled player, but the real question is—does he even want to change?” Tanvir concluded poignantly. This reflection not only emphasizes the urgency for adaptation but also serves as a reminder for all players in Pakistan’s cricket team to evolve.

The road ahead

As debates about the future of Pakistan cricket continue, former cricketer Sohail Tanvir has sparked renewed discussions about the roles of Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan in T20Is. By considering a strategy shift and embracing more aggressive playing styles, the team may better position itself in the fast-changing landscape of T20 cricket.

Tanvir’s insights could pave the way for fresh talent to emerge, potentially charting a new course for the national team. The cricketing world will be watching closely to see how this situation develops and whether strategic changes will manifest in upcoming series.