Pakistan coach Mike Hesson reveals Babar Azam’s batting position for the T20I series against South Africa

Babar Azam is all set to make a highly anticipated return to Pakistan’s T20I setup after almost a year on the sidelines. The star batter, who was previously left out of the squad as Pakistan experimented with new combinations, is back in the fold for the upcoming three-match home series against South Africa. His comeback has generated significant excitement among fans and experts alike, as the Men in Green look to rebuild their T20 side ahead of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026.

Mike Hesson reveals Babar Azam’s batting position

Ahead of the first T20I in Rawalpindi, Pakistan head coach Mike Hesson has shed light on the batting position of Babar. The former New Zealand cricketer confirmed that Babar will feature at number three in the batting order, a position that signals a tactical shift in Pakistan’s lineup. The move comes as part of Hesson’s broader plan to add more flexibility and stability to the top order following a mixed run of performances in recent months.

Babar, who last featured in a T20I series against South Africa in December 2024, was left out of the Asia Cup 2025 squad as selectors turned their attention to younger players. However, Pakistan’s disappointing campaign in the continental tournament has prompted a rethink, paving the way for the experienced batter’s return against the Proteas — runners-up at the 2024 T20 World Cup.

While Babar has predominantly opened in T20Is throughout his career, the head coach believes the shift to number three will allow Pakistan to maximize their batting depth while giving younger players a chance to open the innings with more freedom.

“It’s a great opportunity to get Babar back into the squad. He’s likely to bat at three, so it’s a role that I’m very confident he’ll be able to do well in. His experience, temperament, and ability to control the innings make him a natural fit for this position,” said Hesson while talking to reporters during a training session at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium.

Also READ: South Africa names new T20I captain: David Miller out of limited-overs series against Pakistan

Babar closing in on Rohit Sharma’s world record

Alongside his return, Babar also stands on the verge of a major milestone. The 31-year-old needs just nine runs to surpass Indian great Rohit Sharma and become the all-time leading run-scorer in men’s T20 internationals. Babar currently has 4,223 runs from 128 T20Is at an average of 39.83, while Rohit tops the list with 4,231 runs from 159 matches. Virat Kohli is at third with 4,188 runs in 125 games.

Most runs in men’s T20Is: