Aakash Chopra highlights Pakistan's challenges ahead of Champions Trophy
What's the story
Former Indian cricketer Aakash Chopra has raised concerns over Pakistan's squad for the upcoming 2025 Champions Trophy.
He stressed that apart from Abrar Ahmed, the side doesn't have a specialist spinner, stating, "This team has just one proper spinner."
Chopra also highlighted the significance of Babar Azam in the compeition.
The ex-cricketer shared these thoughts on his YouTube channel, ahead of Pakistan's opening match against New Zealand today.
Key player
Chopra underscores Babar Azam's role in Pakistan's success
Chopra emphasized on Azam's performance for Pakistan to do well in the tournament.
He said, "If this team has to progress in this tournament, Babar needs to score runs from two points of view."
Chopra went on to explain, "Point two, which is an equally important point, he is an opener. If you lose your opener early, you need to do the rebuilding job."
He further spoke about Azam's importance stating, "So Babar's form is absolutely critical for their existence."
Bowling concerns
Chopra's take on Pakistan's bowling strategy
Chopra also said he would be keen to see how Tayyab Tahir and Khushdil Shah fare for Pakistan.
He said, "I am very curious to see how Tayyab Tahir plays and how much Khushdil Shah's bowling works because this team has just one proper spinner."
The former cricketer said Pakistan could look at adding Faheem Ashraf to their lineup for another bowling option.
Tournament risks
Chopra warns of potential pitfalls for Pakistan
Chopra warned Pakistan's next match against New Zealand could be a potential pitfall.
He said, "This is your potential banana skin because if you lose this match and then the next one against India, you will be out of the tournament."
"If India beat Bangladesh tomorrow and then beat you, India will have two wins. New Zealand would have also won two after some time, and Pakistan and Bangladesh would be out," Chopra added.
Match predictions
Chopra's predictions for New Zealand-Pakistan clash
Though Chopra considered New Zealand as favorites for their Champions Trophy clash against Pakistan, he speculated Mohammad Rizwan's team might pull off a win in today's game.
The match is a historic one for Pakistan cricket, as they are hosting their first major ICC tournament in 29 years due to past security concerns.
Both teams have had intense past encounters with New Zealand holding an edge.
Notably, New Zealand are coming off a stellar ODI tri-series finals win against Pakistan.