Asia Cup 2022: Should Babar Azam consider coming down the order rather than the opener slot? 

In the first two matches, Babar Azam scored just 19 runs at an average of 9.50 and in the third match scored mere 14 runs. While his batting has taken a backseat, Mohammad Rizwan has emerged as the leading scorer in the tournament. 

Pakistan's batting has always revolved around Babar Azam. Though Rizwan rescued the team successfully in past matches, Babar Azam's form will be a matter of concern if it remains persistent. 

"And at the moment Pakistan's batting revolves around Babar Azam. So yes, if a player like Babar Azam is dismissed for low scores consecutively, then there is a sense of concern," said Wasim Jaffer. 

With his batting concerns rising, most of the former cricketers have quoted one common suggestion: Babar Azam should come at number 3 and open with another batter. This will give him the needed intent and space to play aggressively.  

Former captain Mohammed Hafeez said, "Fakhar should open. But it can only happen if Babar shows big heart as a captain and leaves his comfort zone to play at no.3 and emerge as a leader."

"I have said this multiple times… Babar Azam shouldn't open. Instead, he should come one down and anchor the innings till the end," said Shoaib Akhtar.

While the experienced star is seen to be troubled on the field, some emerging stars look promising for Pakistan's cricket in the future. Let's see a few players who have played exceedingly well despite having less experience in international cricket.

Upcoming stars in Pakistan Team

Naseem Shah

The youngest bowler to pick up a hat-trick in test cricket is taking forward the Pakistan legacy of fast bowlers. A country with bowlers like Wasim Akram, Shoaib Akhtar, Umar Gul, and Shaheen Afridi has produced another talent - Naseem Shah.

For one to shine, the senior has to take a sideline. After Shaheen Afridi got ruled out of the Asia Cup, Naseem Shah got the chance to play in the big tournament. He grabbed the opportunity from both hands and maintained a fierce attitude and attacking bowling for Pakistan.

He is suddenly a topic of discussion among every cricket expert. After defeating India in the second clash of the Asia Cup, he might also get a chance to help his team win the Asia Cup title. 

In just three international T20 games, he has taken 5-wickets but shown great potential with his pace, swing and bounce.

Shahnawaz Dahani

The 24-year-old right-arm pacer played a very influential inning for Pakistan in this Asia Cup's first encounter with India. 

Coming to bat at number 11 when the team struggled at 128/9 in the 19th over, the youngster held his nerves to smash 16 runs in 6 balls, helping Pakistan's total climb to 147. He struck two massive sixes before getting dismissed. Even with the ball, he conceded just 29 runs but remained wicketless.

Against Hong Kong, he returned with figures of 1/7 but couldn't continue to add feathers to his cap due to a side strain. His recovery and comeback will be awaited by team Pakistan. He is one of the good finds for his team. 

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