Pakistan’s Babar Azam set to play at no. 4 spot in Test series against Bangladesh | Parami News

Pakistan’s cricket team is looking at strategies changes ahead of their two-match test series against Bangladesh, with Captain Babar Azam set to bat as number four for the first time, according to sources close to the team.

This move differs significantly from Azam’s traditional batting order in one day games where he has mostly batted in the top three.

The decision to push Azam down the order seems to be part of a wider tactical change by management. While sources say there will be no alteration to Abdullah Shafiq’s role as opener, captain Shan Masood will occupy number three, an important spot. The new batting arrangements intend to solidify the top order and stabilize the middle-order with him among them.

Azam trying out for a place at number four in his Test innings isn’t completely unheard of. He was tried out at three during Pakistan’s trip to Sri Lanka in 2022 and retained it for second Test against England later that year. Nevertheless, his slide to number four ahead of their forthcoming Bangladesh tour indicates a more permanent shift in team strategy over time.

Again, the series against Bangladesh is also an opportunity for new breeds of talent. According to insiders, batsman Muhammad Huraira stands a good chance of making his maiden outing thereby indicating that the think-tank wants fresh legs in this format.

Pakistan are likely to take advantage of an expected bowler-friendly pitch condition at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium when bowling. It is probable that a trio-fronted pace attack involving Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah and Mir Hamza will be used leaving only one spinner remaining for completion of their bowling lineup,

From August 21st onwards, Rawalpindi begins hosting two test matches remarkable due it marking Jason Gillespie’s first assignment as coach. His arrival ushers in a new era for Pakistan’s Test cricket which requires his guidance on how they should approach both Bangladesh or any other teams in the future.

The second Test will be played in Karachi from August 30th to September 3rd, but the National Stadium is currently undergoing renovations hence there will be no spectators. Although it may be a minor setback that the home crowd will miss out on this match, the team’s focus will remain on delivering a strong performance and winning the series against Bangladesh.