T20 World Cup: Pakistan have offered an early glimpse into a reshaped batting order as preparations intensify for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup. Following the opening T20 international against Australia, captain Salman Ali Agha confirmed that he will continue batting at number three, signalling a clear tactical direction for the tournament ahead.
Ali Agha’s decision marks a notable adjustment from his usual role lower down the order. Throughout much of his T20 international career, he has been deployed in the middle and late overs. However, the move to number three reflects Pakistan’s intent to bring greater attacking intent during the early stages of the innings, particularly in conditions where spin bowling plays a decisive role.
The captain indicated that the change is not temporary. He views the number three position as central to Pakistan’s approach, especially during the Powerplay, when exploiting fielding restrictions can set the tone for the innings.
The new role produced encouraging results in the first T20I of the three-match series in Lahore. Walking in at first drop, Ali Agha played a brisk innings, scoring 39 runs and helping Pakistan build momentum in the first half of their innings. His knock came at a time when the hosts were looking to assert control and push the scoring rate.
Pakistan eventually posted a total of 168, which proved competitive on a surface that became increasingly difficult for stroke play as the match progressed. The hosts went on to secure a 22-run victory, providing a timely boost just days before the World Cup begins.
Explaining the rationale behind his promotion, Ali Agha highlighted the importance of handling spin early in the innings. With many World Cup venues expected to offer assistance to slower bowlers, Pakistan are keen to counter that threat from the outset.
He noted that facing spin with attacking intent during the Powerplay was a key factor in the decision, adding that the position allows him to influence the game earlier and apply pressure on opposition bowlers.
The captain’s move up the order is likely to reshape other roles within the batting unit. Babar Azam, who previously occupied the number three slot, batted at number four in the opening match against Australia. He scored 24 from 20 deliveries, adjusting to a position that may now require greater flexibility depending on match situations.
Pakistan’s management appears open to experimenting with combinations, using the series as an opportunity to fine-tune roles before the global tournament.
While the batting laid the foundation, Pakistan’s bowlers ensured the plan came together. Defending 168 at the Gaddafi Stadium, the hosts relied heavily on their spinners, who claimed six Australian wickets. The visitors struggled to maintain momentum as the pitch slowed, eventually falling short by 22 runs.
Ali Agha acknowledged that Pakistan could have added more runs after a strong start but expressed confidence that the total was sufficient given the conditions. He credited the bowling unit for executing their plans effectively and adapting quickly as the surface changed.
The remaining two matches of the series are scheduled for Saturday and Sunday, offering Pakistan further opportunities to refine their strategies. With the World Cup imminent, performances in these games are expected to play a key role in finalising the squad’s approach, particularly in the batting order.
