NEW DELHI: Pakistan skipper Mohammad Rizwan has hinted that Babar Azam will open the innings in the upcoming tri-series clash against New Zealand in Lahore in the absence of injured Saim Ayub. When pressed about Pakistan’s opening combination, Rizwan responded with the now-famous words, “King kar lega.”
The phrase, which translates to “The King will do it,” was originally coined by pacer Hasan Ali in July 2024, emphasising Babar’s ability to thrive under any circumstances.
Rizwan referenced the remark while addressing concerns over Pakistan’s opening lineup following the unfortunate injury to young opener Ayub.
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“Iske jawaab mein Hasan ne ek baat ki thi na, ‘King kar lega’ (Hasan had said something, ‘King will do it.’),” said Rizwan during the press conference, reinforcing faith in Babar Azam’s capabilities.
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The tri-nation ODI series featuring hosts Pakistan, New Zealand, and South Africa is scheduled to take place from February 8-14. Matches will be played at Lahore’s newly upgraded Gaddafi Stadium and Karachi’s National Stadium.
Meanwhile, Pakistan’s preparations took a hit with Saim Ayub being ruled out of the ICC Champions Trophy.
The talented left-hander sustained an ankle fracture in South Africa in early January and has been prescribed a 10-week rehabilitation period in England.
Following medical assessments, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) confirmed Ayub’s unavailability, stating, “His availability for the New Zealand tour will be subject to clearing all fitness tests and medical requirements.”
Ayub, 22, had been in stellar form, delivering standout performances across multiple tours. He notched back-to-back centuries in South Africa and also registered a T20 hundred in Zimbabwe, cementing his status as one of Pakistan’s most promising young batters.
Pakistan’s cricket calendar remains packed, with a New Zealand tour from March 16 to April 5 featuring five T20Is and three ODIs. The Pakistan Super League (PSL) will follow immediately, starting on April 8, where fans hope to see Ayub back in action.
