T20 World Cup: Gilchrist wants Babar to continue as opening batter

Legendary Australian batter Adam Gilchrist has backed Pakistan captain Babar Azam to come back strong after a string of low scores in the ongoing T20 World Cup.

The 28-year-old has so far notched up just 39 runs in five innings at a strike rate of 61 in the ongoing World Cup. He has struggled to find rhythm against Bangladesh in a must-win game, where he scored 25 off 33 balls before getting caught at short third-man region trying to heave the ball.

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There have been calls for Babar to demote to No.3, however, Gilchrist doesn't agree with this call.

"Oh no, I think he [Babar] is an opening batter, his record is excellent. He's having a challenging time but I think he's a good enough player to come out on top, he is a wonderful player," said Gilchrist while speaking on Paktv.tv.

Pakistan qualified for the semi-finals courtesy of a major upset in the World Cup when the Netherlands defeated South Africa by 13 runs which then resulted in the favor of the Men in Green. Pakistan edged Bangladesh to make it to the semi-final of the tournament.

"I'm not sure who is the favorite, it is hard to predict," said Gilchrist. "Pakistan have done well to keep fighting to stay in the tournament and then they find themselves in the semi-final so they have as good as chance as anyone I guess."

From the other group, both New Zealand and England have qualified for the next stage of the tournament, which starts Wednesday.