Pakistan’s former Test cricketer Mudassar Nazar wants veteran all-rounder Mohammad Hafeez to open the innings for the Men in Green during their upcoming Twenty20 International (T20I) series against New Zealand in the absence of prolific batsman Babar Azam.

The 64-year-old believed that Hafeez was capable of playing a longer innings which would help stabilise the batting unit while helping the Men in Green put on a big total.

“New Zealand will be coming in as the favourites. Pakistan should go with Mohammad Hafeez as the opener. He is capable of playing long innings. If he can stay at the crease for a long time, then this will help stabilise the batting unit and help the team put on a big score. Without Babar, the chances of New Zealand winning have become even higher. They were in total control during their recent series against West Indies. Their players always perform well in their own conditions. Taming them will be a tough challenge,” Nazar said.

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“It will be a tough series for the Men in Green. Pakistan will be under more pressure because of the absence of Babar Azam. He is the only player that occupies one end while guiding the batsmen at the other end. Even though New Zealand are favourites, Pakistan has shown in the past that it is capable of playing incredible cricket. They can surprise any side in the world on any track. Pakistan’s matches are decided on the day based on the players’ performance,” he added.

The former cricketer also stressed the need for the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to employ an independent selection committee.

“The PCB should employ an independent selection committee that should not have the pressures of a double job. They should talk to the selectors in vivid details and plan for the long-term as well as the short-term future plans,” he said.