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Comparing different openers in Pakistan circuit who could be tried in Tests

b.lesner

Local Club Captain
Joined
Apr 26, 2015
Runs
2,480
Post of the Week
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1. Israrullah (Monzai born) - 6003 runs at an average of 36.38 and health strike rate of 64.49, 12 hundreds and 30 fifties in 98 matches (173 innings) means scores 50+ every 2.3 matches or 4 innings and scores hundred every 8 matches or 14 innings. His weakness is struggles against offspin. He has played for Pakistan A and his strength is he plays quicker than any other opener in domestic. He is highest run scoring opener in FC last seasons.

2. Zain Abbas (Kabirwala born) - 3521 runs at an average of 32.90 and strike rate of 54.98, 5 hundreds and 19 fifties in 66 matches (115 innings) means scores 50+ every 2.7 matches or 4.7 innings and scores hundred every 13 matches or 23 innings. His weakness is short ball but he is techniquily most equipped cricketer on grassy wickets as he was the only opener to score in that Duke ball and grassy undercover pitches year of domestic cricket that also got him call up for Pakistan A. He was 2nd higher run scoring opener last seasons.

3. Ali Zaryab Asif (Lahore Boy)- 928 runs at an average of 30.93 and strike rate of 42.49, 2 hundreds and 4 fifties in 18 matches (31 innings) means scores 50+ every 3 matches or 5 innings and scores hundred every 9 matches or 15 innings. Former Pakistan U-19 Vice-captain still early in his career needs atleast 3 more seasona especially for an opener.

4. Imran Butt - 4618 runs at an average of 34.98 and strike rate of 51.25, 10 hundreds and 24 fifties in 77 matches (140 innings) means scores 50+ every 3 matches or 4 innings and scores hundred every 7.7 matches or 14 innings. He has lots of technical flaws which needs to work in NHPC with Muhammad yousuf and play 2 more years domestic after that.


5. Imam ul haq - 2601 runs at an average of 35.04 and poor strike rate of 44.09 , 5 hundreds and 14 fifties in 49 matches (87 innings) means scores 50+ every 2.5 matches or 4.5 innings and scores hundred every 9.8 matches or 17.4 innings. So not a great record and also he isn't tecniquely sound for test cricket.

6. Abid Ali - 7935 runs at an average of 36.38 and strike rate of 48.07, 21 hundreds and 33 fifties in 121 matches (221 innings) means scores 50+ every 2.7 matches or 5 innings and scores hundred every 5.7 matches or 10 innings.

7. Sharjeel Khan - 5553 runs at an average of 38.29 and very health strike rate of 81.38 , 13 hundreds and 25 fifties in 85 matches (151 innings) means scores 50+ every 1.7 matches or 3 innings and scores hundred every 6.5matches or 11.6 innings. This record shows he has far better record than anyone on the list.

8. Omair bin Yousuf (Karachi born)- 1428 runs at an average of 38.59 and strike rate of 47.55, 5 hundreds and 3 fifties in 22 matches (39 innings) means scores 50+ every 2.7 matches or 4.8 innings and scores hundred every 4.4 matches or 7.8 innings. Very good conversion rate of 100s and probably future of opening in tests but needs more time.

9. Fakhar Zaman - 2919 runs at an average of 36.94 and health strike rate of 60.83, 6 hundreds and 17 fifties in 51 matches (83 innings) means scores 50+ every 2.2 matches or 3.6 innings and scores hundred every 8.5 matches or 13.8 innings. Currently not equipped to face top quality test match bowling.

10. Khurram Manzoor - 10923 runs at an average of 37.66 and strike rate of 44.71, 28 hundreds and 51 fifties in 177 matches (307 innings) means scores 50+ every 2.2 matches or 3.8 innings and scores hundred every 6.3 matches or 10.9 innings. He has scored most runs on flat track and struggles even if there is slight movement in pitch.

11. Shan Masood - 7440 runs at an average of 34.60 and strike rate of 46.80, 15 hundreds and 36 fifties in 132 matches (225 innings) means scores 50+ every 2.5 matches or 4.4 innings and scores hundred every 8.8matches or 15 innings. He isn't test match material.

12. Abdul Wahid Bangulzai (Quetta born) - Pakistan U-19 opener hasn't played FC yet just couple of List A and t20 but definitely one for the future with beautiful drives and cuts.

13. Nasir Nawaz - (South Waziristan boy) 450 runs at an average of 32.71 and healthy strike rate of 77.45, 3 fifties in only 7 matches (14 innings). My personal favorite he hits long sixes and technically well equipped just need to sort out short selection.

14. Sahibzada Farhan - 1701 runs at an average of 32.71 and health strike rate of 60.42 , 0 hundreds and 13 fifties in 30 matches (52 innings) means scores 50+ every 2.3 matches or 4 innings. He needs to score hundreds in 4 days but he is more suited to one days where he has lots of performance but he hasn't been given chance.

15. Zeeshan Malik (Chakwal born Former Pakistan U-19 captain) - 1098 runs at an average of 30.50 and health strike rate of 67.69, 1 hundred and 6 fifties in 19 matches (37 innings) means scores 50+ every 2.7 matches or 5.2 innings. He could be tried right now out the lot but needs 1 good season of 1000+ runs.

16. Zeeshan Ashraf (Okara born) - 1500 runs at an average of 28.30 and strike rate of 58.93, 4 hundreds and 5 fifties in 30 matches (53 innings) means scores 50+ every 3.3 matches or 5.8 innings and scores hundred every 7.5 matches or 13.2 innings.

17. Abdullah Shafiq - Just 1 FC match with 133 Runs at SR 63

18. Rizwan Hussain (Pir mahal born) - 1326 runs at an average of 30.83 and good strike rate of 62.28, 3 hundreds and 7 fifties in 24 matches (44 innings) means scores 50 every 2.4 matches or 4.4 innings and hundred in every 8 matches or 14.6 innings. He was taken by Islamabad united couple of seasons back because of his style which looks similar to Sharjeel Khan if you look in distant you will think Sharjeel is batting i hooe he improves because he is one for the future.

19. Tayyib Tahir - (Gujrat born) - 1247 runs at an average of 23.52 and strike rate of 50.96 , 0 hundreds and 8 fifties in 29 matches (56 innings) doesn't look much but this season is his break through season got prompted to first xi in List A and Scored in almost every match and became highest run scorer and List A average 44 , lets see what he does this seasonseason in FC.

20. Mukhtar Ahmed - 1449 runs at an average of 24.55 and strike rate of 59.45 , 3 hundreds and 5 fifties in 33 matches (61 innings) means scores 50 every 4 matches or 7.6 innings and hundred in every 11 matches or 20 innings. Not good technique to survive in 4 day but lets see what he does in furture.

21. Muhammad Akhlaq - (Gujranwala born) - 1047 runs at an average of 26.17 and strike rate of 53.01, 0 hundreds and 7 fifties in 23 matches (44 innings) means scores 50 every 3.2 matches or 6.2 innings. He is also part time wicket keeper but has been touted as one of best hard hitting opener in Pakistan domestic lets see how he does in upcoming seasons.

22. Nauman Anwar - 746 runs at an average of 28.69 and good strike rate of 64.14 , 1 hundreds and 2 fifties in 15 matches (26 innings). He needs to play more FC he is still young and has lots of potential just need to work in NHPC with Muhammad Yousuf.

23. Muhammad Imran Dogar - (Khushal born) - Just 4 FC matches but highest run getter in QAT 2nd xi tournament.

24. Syed Junaid Ali - (Lahore born) - 1033 runs at an average of 23.47 and strike rate of 45.62, 0 hundreds and 2 fifties in 26 matches (47 innings). He is 2nd highest run scorer in QAT 2nd xi and touted as most technically sound opener and he is also wicket keeper. Lets ee what he does.

25. Taimoor Sultan - (Sargodha born) - 242 runs at 20.16 with 1 hundred in 7 matches (13 innings) , not much cricket yet lets see what he does in future scored a century in List A this year.

26. Anas Mustafa - (21 year old) 385 runs at an average of 35 and SR 56 in 6 matches (12 innings)

27. Muhammad Arif - (Abottabad born) - former Pakistan U-19 player known for hitting sixes as a dashing opener.

28. Muhammad Mohsin - (Swat born) - 351 runs at an average of 31 and SR 57 with 1 hundred and 1 fifty and a Legspin allrounder and opener played for Pakistan emerging last year.

29. Azeem Ghuman - (Hyderabad born former Pakistan U-19 captain) 5199 runs at an average of 30.22 and strike rate of 48.54 with 10 hundreds and 22 fifties in 99 matches (177 innings) means scores 50+ every 3 matches or 5.5 innings amd scores hundred every 9.9 matches or 17.7 innings. He has failed to imoress selectors uptill now since his U-19 days lets see how he goes.

30. Ahson Ali - 1114 runs at an average of 27.85 amd very healthy strike rate of 78.23 with 3 hundreds and 1 fifty in 23 matches (40 innings ) is good conversion rate, means he scores 50+ in every 5.7 matches (10 innnings) and hundred 7.6 or 13.3 innings. He is very classy batsman with amazing drives but needs to score more in FC to be considered in tests.

31. Muhammad Huraira - (Sialkot born) he is very young needs to play 3 seasons of FC as he is very poor against Short pitch deliveries.

32. Saim Ayoub - (Karachi born) he looks good technically just needs 3 FC seaons.


No opener averages 40 so now lets look at
Middle order batsman who can be opener:-

1. Usman Salahuddin - 8363 runs at an average of 47.78 and strike rate of 44.23, 24 hundreds and 50 fifties in 128 matches (208 innings) means scores 50+ every 1.7 matches or 2.8 innings and scores hundred every 5.3matches or 8.6 innings. Which is very fantastic record means he scores in almost every other match amd is technically most solid among current player apart from Babar azam. He can be the best opener Pakistan can have for long term right now there in no other readily available options.

2. Muhammad Saad - (Gujrawala born) 5374 runs at an average of 32.56 and strike rate of 42.77, 10 hundreds and 28 fifties in 104 matches (182 innings) means scores 50+ every 3.2 matches or 5.6 innings and scores hundred every 10.4 matches or 18.2 innings. He has also played for Pakistan A in last 2 years lots of matches and scored lots of runs but was never considered especially in Inzamam era, the reason he was selected for Pakistan A was given he is best backfoot player in Pakistan right now and he scored good amount of runs this season too he and Usman Salahuddin were backbone of Central Punjab so lets see how he does.

3. Shoaib Ahmed Manhas - (Rawalpindi born) - 2860 runs at an average of 30.75 and strike rate of 56.73 , 6 hundreds and 9 fifties in 58 matches (102 innings) means scores 50+ every 3.8 matches or 6.8 innings and hundred in every 6.4 matches or 11.3 innings. Thats a great record considered he played almost all matches in KRL ground where 150 odd is average score on those green mambas he definitely is one to watch out for.

4. Umar Amin - 9110 runs at an average of 39.43 and strike rate of 55.67, 22 hundreds and 45 fifties in 142 matches (246 innings) means scores 50+ every 1.8 matches or 3.1 innings and hundred in every 6.4 matches or 11.1 innings.

5. Ali Sarfraz - (Rawalpindi born) - 3977 runs at an average of 31.81 and good strike rate of 61.73, 5 hundreds and 27 fifties in 78 matches (134 innings) means scores 50+ every 2.4 matches or 4.1 innings and hundred in every 15.6 matches or 26.8 innings. He has very strong cut and pull shorts.

6. Sarmad Bhatti - (Khairpur born former Pakistan U-19 Vice-captain) - 2810 runs at an average of 35.12 and strike rate of 42.14 , 4 hundreds and 9 fifties in 54 matches (95 innings) means scores 50+ every 4.1 matches or 7.3 innings and hundred in every 13.5 matches or 23.7 innings.

7. Rohail Nazir - (Islamabad born Pakistan A and Pakistan U-19 Captain) - 741 runs at an average of 39 and strike rate of 54.16 , 2 hundreds and 4 fifties in 11 matches (19 innings) means scores 50+ every 1.8 matches or 3.1 innings and hundred in every 5.5 matches or 9.5 innings. He is only young batsman thats scored 100 in side match in New Zealand on those difficult tracks where all Pakistan test players failed in same match that means he is technically sound and can be tried as opener as also he bats number for Pakistan A and in domestic. He is future captain of Pakistan and needs to be played right now at least against weaker teams because playing Sarfraz as backup aginst them isn't going to do any good.

8. Syed Saad Ali - 4747 runs at an average of 44.36 and good strike rate of 51.56, 11 hundreds and 25 fifties in 74 matches (120 innings) means scores 50+ every 2 matches or 3.3 innings and hundred in every 6.7 matches or 10.9 innings.He was highest run scorer in the dukes ball seasons where teams were getting all out in 120-130 he scored 900 odd runs so he can open for Pakistan in difficult conditions and is experienced enough to do so also as he is number 3 bat.

9. Umair Masood ( Rawalpindi born Former Pakistan U-19 wicket keeper) he has just 19 FC games haven't batted alot just scored a Century last year in a match and showed his potential but was dropped after that surprisingly by Northern. He showed his Talent, Technique and temperament in that Game against West indies quarter final 2016 wc which West indies won he was lone warrier on that deadly seaming track.

10. Ramiz aziz - (Karachi born former Pakistan U-19 player) 4823 runs at an average of 33.26 and good strike rate of 46.78 , 5 hundreds and 31 fifties in 93 matches (159 innings) means scores 50+ every 2.5 matches or 4.4 innings and hundred in every 18.6 matches or 31.8 innings.
 
Thanks for the list of players and stats. Those averages for the openers are terrible.

IF they avg 30 and 25 in domestic , they will go the same way as imran butt in international cricket with an avg of 15.

Needs to be a change at grass roots level to develop opening batsmen. Start using the dukes ball.
 
Thanks for the list of players and stats. Those averages for the openers are terrible.

IF they avg 30 and 25 in domestic , they will go the same way as imran butt in international cricket with an avg of 15.

Needs to be a change at grass roots level to develop opening batsmen. Start using the dukes ball.

Dukes is something that is only applicable in 2 countries i.e. England and WI.

The majority of the test playing nations barring India use the Kookaburra, in order to identify good bowling talent they need to show their worth with the utilisation of the kookaburra.
 
1. Israrullah (Monzai born) - 6003 runs at an average of 36.38 and health strike rate of 64.49, 12 hundreds and 30 fifties in 98 matches (173 innings) means scores 50+ every 2.3 matches or 4 innings and scores hundred every 8 matches or 14 innings. His weakness is struggles against offspin. He has played for Pakistan A and his strength is he plays quicker than any other opener in domestic. He is highest run scoring opener in FC last seasons.

2. Zain Abbas (Kabirwala born) - 3521 runs at an average of 32.90 and strike rate of 54.98, 5 hundreds and 19 fifties in 66 matches (115 innings) means scores 50+ every 2.7 matches or 4.7 innings and scores hundred every 13 matches or 23 innings. His weakness is short ball but he is techniquily most equipped cricketer on grassy wickets as he was the only opener to score in that Duke ball and grassy undercover pitches year of domestic cricket that also got him call up for Pakistan A. He was 2nd higher run scoring opener last seasons.

3. Ali Zaryab Asif (Lahore Boy)- 928 runs at an average of 30.93 and strike rate of 42.49, 2 hundreds and 4 fifties in 18 matches (31 innings) means scores 50+ every 3 matches or 5 innings and scores hundred every 9 matches or 15 innings. Former Pakistan U-19 Vice-captain still early in his career needs atleast 3 more seasona especially for an opener.

4. Imran Butt - 4618 runs at an average of 34.98 and strike rate of 51.25, 10 hundreds and 24 fifties in 77 matches (140 innings) means scores 50+ every 3 matches or 4 innings and scores hundred every 7.7 matches or 14 innings. He has lots of technical flaws which needs to work in NHPC with Muhammad yousuf and play 2 more years domestic after that.


5. Imam ul haq - 2601 runs at an average of 35.04 and poor strike rate of 44.09 , 5 hundreds and 14 fifties in 49 matches (87 innings) means scores 50+ every 2.5 matches or 4.5 innings and scores hundred every 9.8 matches or 17.4 innings. So not a great record and also he isn't tecniquely sound for test cricket.

6. Abid Ali - 7935 runs at an average of 36.38 and strike rate of 48.07, 21 hundreds and 33 fifties in 121 matches (221 innings) means scores 50+ every 2.7 matches or 5 innings and scores hundred every 5.7 matches or 10 innings.

7. Sharjeel Khan - 5553 runs at an average of 38.29 and very health strike rate of 81.38 , 13 hundreds and 25 fifties in 85 matches (151 innings) means scores 50+ every 1.7 matches or 3 innings and scores hundred every 6.5matches or 11.6 innings. This record shows he has far better record than anyone on the list.

8. Omair bin Yousuf (Karachi born)- 1428 runs at an average of 38.59 and strike rate of 47.55, 5 hundreds and 3 fifties in 22 matches (39 innings) means scores 50+ every 2.7 matches or 4.8 innings and scores hundred every 4.4 matches or 7.8 innings. Very good conversion rate of 100s and probably future of opening in tests but needs more time.

9. Fakhar Zaman - 2919 runs at an average of 36.94 and health strike rate of 60.83, 6 hundreds and 17 fifties in 51 matches (83 innings) means scores 50+ every 2.2 matches or 3.6 innings and scores hundred every 8.5 matches or 13.8 innings. Currently not equipped to face top quality test match bowling.

10. Khurram Manzoor - 10923 runs at an average of 37.66 and strike rate of 44.71, 28 hundreds and 51 fifties in 177 matches (307 innings) means scores 50+ every 2.2 matches or 3.8 innings and scores hundred every 6.3 matches or 10.9 innings. He has scored most runs on flat track and struggles even if there is slight movement in pitch.

11. Shan Masood - 7440 runs at an average of 34.60 and strike rate of 46.80, 15 hundreds and 36 fifties in 132 matches (225 innings) means scores 50+ every 2.5 matches or 4.4 innings and scores hundred every 8.8matches or 15 innings. He isn't test match material.

12. Abdul Wahid Bangulzai (Quetta born) - Pakistan U-19 opener hasn't played FC yet just couple of List A and t20 but definitely one for the future with beautiful drives and cuts.

13. Nasir Nawaz - (South Waziristan boy) 450 runs at an average of 32.71 and healthy strike rate of 77.45, 3 fifties in only 7 matches (14 innings). My personal favorite he hits long sixes and technically well equipped just need to sort out short selection.

14. Sahibzada Farhan - 1701 runs at an average of 32.71 and health strike rate of 60.42 , 0 hundreds and 13 fifties in 30 matches (52 innings) means scores 50+ every 2.3 matches or 4 innings. He needs to score hundreds in 4 days but he is more suited to one days where he has lots of performance but he hasn't been given chance.

15. Zeeshan Malik (Chakwal born Former Pakistan U-19 captain) - 1098 runs at an average of 30.50 and health strike rate of 67.69, 1 hundred and 6 fifties in 19 matches (37 innings) means scores 50+ every 2.7 matches or 5.2 innings. He could be tried right now out the lot but needs 1 good season of 1000+ runs.

16. Zeeshan Ashraf (Okara born) - 1500 runs at an average of 28.30 and strike rate of 58.93, 4 hundreds and 5 fifties in 30 matches (53 innings) means scores 50+ every 3.3 matches or 5.8 innings and scores hundred every 7.5 matches or 13.2 innings.

17. Abdullah Shafiq - Just 1 FC match with 133 Runs at SR 63

18. Rizwan Hussain (Pir mahal born) - 1326 runs at an average of 30.83 and good strike rate of 62.28, 3 hundreds and 7 fifties in 24 matches (44 innings) means scores 50 every 2.4 matches or 4.4 innings and hundred in every 8 matches or 14.6 innings. He was taken by Islamabad united couple of seasons back because of his style which looks similar to Sharjeel Khan if you look in distant you will think Sharjeel is batting i hooe he improves because he is one for the future.

19. Tayyib Tahir - (Gujrat born) - 1247 runs at an average of 23.52 and strike rate of 50.96 , 0 hundreds and 8 fifties in 29 matches (56 innings) doesn't look much but this season is his break through season got prompted to first xi in List A and Scored in almost every match and became highest run scorer and List A average 44 , lets see what he does this seasonseason in FC.

20. Mukhtar Ahmed - 1449 runs at an average of 24.55 and strike rate of 59.45 , 3 hundreds and 5 fifties in 33 matches (61 innings) means scores 50 every 4 matches or 7.6 innings and hundred in every 11 matches or 20 innings. Not good technique to survive in 4 day but lets see what he does in furture.

21. Muhammad Akhlaq - (Gujranwala born) - 1047 runs at an average of 26.17 and strike rate of 53.01, 0 hundreds and 7 fifties in 23 matches (44 innings) means scores 50 every 3.2 matches or 6.2 innings. He is also part time wicket keeper but has been touted as one of best hard hitting opener in Pakistan domestic lets see how he does in upcoming seasons.

22. Nauman Anwar - 746 runs at an average of 28.69 and good strike rate of 64.14 , 1 hundreds and 2 fifties in 15 matches (26 innings). He needs to play more FC he is still young and has lots of potential just need to work in NHPC with Muhammad Yousuf.

23. Muhammad Imran Dogar - (Khushal born) - Just 4 FC matches but highest run getter in QAT 2nd xi tournament.

24. Syed Junaid Ali - (Lahore born) - 1033 runs at an average of 23.47 and strike rate of 45.62, 0 hundreds and 2 fifties in 26 matches (47 innings). He is 2nd highest run scorer in QAT 2nd xi and touted as most technically sound opener and he is also wicket keeper. Lets ee what he does.

25. Taimoor Sultan - (Sargodha born) - 242 runs at 20.16 with 1 hundred in 7 matches (13 innings) , not much cricket yet lets see what he does in future scored a century in List A this year.

26. Anas Mustafa - (21 year old) 385 runs at an average of 35 and SR 56 in 6 matches (12 innings)

27. Muhammad Arif - (Abottabad born) - former Pakistan U-19 player known for hitting sixes as a dashing opener.

28. Muhammad Mohsin - (Swat born) - 351 runs at an average of 31 and SR 57 with 1 hundred and 1 fifty and a Legspin allrounder and opener played for Pakistan emerging last year.

29. Azeem Ghuman - (Hyderabad born former Pakistan U-19 captain) 5199 runs at an average of 30.22 and strike rate of 48.54 with 10 hundreds and 22 fifties in 99 matches (177 innings) means scores 50+ every 3 matches or 5.5 innings amd scores hundred every 9.9 matches or 17.7 innings. He has failed to imoress selectors uptill now since his U-19 days lets see how he goes.

30. Ahson Ali - 1114 runs at an average of 27.85 amd very healthy strike rate of 78.23 with 3 hundreds and 1 fifty in 23 matches (40 innings ) is good conversion rate, means he scores 50+ in every 5.7 matches (10 innnings) and hundred 7.6 or 13.3 innings. He is very classy batsman with amazing drives but needs to score more in FC to be considered in tests.

31. Muhammad Huraira - (Sialkot born) he is very young needs to play 3 seasons of FC as he is very poor against Short pitch deliveries.

32. Saim Ayoub - (Karachi born) he looks good technically just needs 3 FC seaons.


No opener averages 40 so now lets look at
Middle order batsman who can be opener:-

1. Usman Salahuddin - 8363 runs at an average of 47.78 and strike rate of 44.23, 24 hundreds and 50 fifties in 128 matches (208 innings) means scores 50+ every 1.7 matches or 2.8 innings and scores hundred every 5.3matches or 8.6 innings. Which is very fantastic record means he scores in almost every other match amd is technically most solid among current player apart from Babar azam. He can be the best opener Pakistan can have for long term right now there in no other readily available options.

2. Muhammad Saad - (Gujrawala born) 5374 runs at an average of 32.56 and strike rate of 42.77, 10 hundreds and 28 fifties in 104 matches (182 innings) means scores 50+ every 3.2 matches or 5.6 innings and scores hundred every 10.4 matches or 18.2 innings. He has also played for Pakistan A in last 2 years lots of matches and scored lots of runs but was never considered especially in Inzamam era, the reason he was selected for Pakistan A was given he is best backfoot player in Pakistan right now and he scored good amount of runs this season too he and Usman Salahuddin were backbone of Central Punjab so lets see how he does.

3. Shoaib Ahmed Manhas - (Rawalpindi born) - 2860 runs at an average of 30.75 and strike rate of 56.73 , 6 hundreds and 9 fifties in 58 matches (102 innings) means scores 50+ every 3.8 matches or 6.8 innings and hundred in every 6.4 matches or 11.3 innings. Thats a great record considered he played almost all matches in KRL ground where 150 odd is average score on those green mambas he definitely is one to watch out for.

4. Umar Amin - 9110 runs at an average of 39.43 and strike rate of 55.67, 22 hundreds and 45 fifties in 142 matches (246 innings) means scores 50+ every 1.8 matches or 3.1 innings and hundred in every 6.4 matches or 11.1 innings.

5. Ali Sarfraz - (Rawalpindi born) - 3977 runs at an average of 31.81 and good strike rate of 61.73, 5 hundreds and 27 fifties in 78 matches (134 innings) means scores 50+ every 2.4 matches or 4.1 innings and hundred in every 15.6 matches or 26.8 innings. He has very strong cut and pull shorts.

6. Sarmad Bhatti - (Khairpur born former Pakistan U-19 Vice-captain) - 2810 runs at an average of 35.12 and strike rate of 42.14 , 4 hundreds and 9 fifties in 54 matches (95 innings) means scores 50+ every 4.1 matches or 7.3 innings and hundred in every 13.5 matches or 23.7 innings.

7. Rohail Nazir - (Islamabad born Pakistan A and Pakistan U-19 Captain) - 741 runs at an average of 39 and strike rate of 54.16 , 2 hundreds and 4 fifties in 11 matches (19 innings) means scores 50+ every 1.8 matches or 3.1 innings and hundred in every 5.5 matches or 9.5 innings. He is only young batsman thats scored 100 in side match in New Zealand on those difficult tracks where all Pakistan test players failed in same match that means he is technically sound and can be tried as opener as also he bats number for Pakistan A and in domestic. He is future captain of Pakistan and needs to be played right now at least against weaker teams because playing Sarfraz as backup aginst them isn't going to do any good.

8. Syed Saad Ali - 4747 runs at an average of 44.36 and good strike rate of 51.56, 11 hundreds and 25 fifties in 74 matches (120 innings) means scores 50+ every 2 matches or 3.3 innings and hundred in every 6.7 matches or 10.9 innings.He was highest run scorer in the dukes ball seasons where teams were getting all out in 120-130 he scored 900 odd runs so he can open for Pakistan in difficult conditions and is experienced enough to do so also as he is number 3 bat.

9. Umair Masood ( Rawalpindi born Former Pakistan U-19 wicket keeper) he has just 19 FC games haven't batted alot just scored a Century last year in a match and showed his potential but was dropped after that surprisingly by Northern. He showed his Talent, Technique and temperament in that Game against West indies quarter final 2016 wc which West indies won he was lone warrier on that deadly seaming track.

10. Ramiz aziz - (Karachi born former Pakistan U-19 player) 4823 runs at an average of 33.26 and good strike rate of 46.78 , 5 hundreds and 31 fifties in 93 matches (159 innings) means scores 50+ every 2.5 matches or 4.4 innings and hundred in every 18.6 matches or 31.8 innings.

A pretty detailed analysis on possible openers. Seems you have zeroed in on Fakhar Zaman and Sharjeel Khan.
another thing : Why mention Rawalpindi born or Gujaranwala born?
 
A pretty detailed analysis on possible openers. Seems you have zeroed in on Fakhar Zaman and Sharjeel Khan.
another thing : Why mention Rawalpindi born or Gujaranwala born?

No Sharjeel is in top 3 openers right now in Pakistan in 4 day he just has fitness problem and Fakhar also needs bit of time in NHPC. And i have only attached Region to those who haven't debuted for people to easily find them.
 
1. Israrullah (Monzai born) - 6003 runs at an average of 36.38 and health strike rate of 64.49, 12 hundreds and 30 fifties in 98 matches (173 innings) means scores 50+ every 2.3 matches or 4 innings and scores hundred every 8 matches or 14 innings. His weakness is struggles against offspin. He has played for Pakistan A and his strength is he plays quicker than any other opener in domestic. He is highest run scoring opener in FC last seasons.

2. Zain Abbas (Kabirwala born) - 3521 runs at an average of 32.90 and strike rate of 54.98, 5 hundreds and 19 fifties in 66 matches (115 innings) means scores 50+ every 2.7 matches or 4.7 innings and scores hundred every 13 matches or 23 innings. His weakness is short ball but he is techniquily most equipped cricketer on grassy wickets as he was the only opener to score in that Duke ball and grassy undercover pitches year of domestic cricket that also got him call up for Pakistan A. He was 2nd higher run scoring opener last seasons.

3. Ali Zaryab Asif (Lahore Boy)- 928 runs at an average of 30.93 and strike rate of 42.49, 2 hundreds and 4 fifties in 18 matches (31 innings) means scores 50+ every 3 matches or 5 innings and scores hundred every 9 matches or 15 innings. Former Pakistan U-19 Vice-captain still early in his career needs atleast 3 more seasona especially for an opener.

4. Imran Butt - 4618 runs at an average of 34.98 and strike rate of 51.25, 10 hundreds and 24 fifties in 77 matches (140 innings) means scores 50+ every 3 matches or 4 innings and scores hundred every 7.7 matches or 14 innings. He has lots of technical flaws which needs to work in NHPC with Muhammad yousuf and play 2 more years domestic after that.


5. Imam ul haq - 2601 runs at an average of 35.04 and poor strike rate of 44.09 , 5 hundreds and 14 fifties in 49 matches (87 innings) means scores 50+ every 2.5 matches or 4.5 innings and scores hundred every 9.8 matches or 17.4 innings. So not a great record and also he isn't tecniquely sound for test cricket.

6. Abid Ali - 7935 runs at an average of 36.38 and strike rate of 48.07, 21 hundreds and 33 fifties in 121 matches (221 innings) means scores 50+ every 2.7 matches or 5 innings and scores hundred every 5.7 matches or 10 innings.

7. Sharjeel Khan - 5553 runs at an average of 38.29 and very health strike rate of 81.38 , 13 hundreds and 25 fifties in 85 matches (151 innings) means scores 50+ every 1.7 matches or 3 innings and scores hundred every 6.5matches or 11.6 innings. This record shows he has far better record than anyone on the list.

8. Omair bin Yousuf (Karachi born)- 1428 runs at an average of 38.59 and strike rate of 47.55, 5 hundreds and 3 fifties in 22 matches (39 innings) means scores 50+ every 2.7 matches or 4.8 innings and scores hundred every 4.4 matches or 7.8 innings. Very good conversion rate of 100s and probably future of opening in tests but needs more time.

9. Fakhar Zaman - 2919 runs at an average of 36.94 and health strike rate of 60.83, 6 hundreds and 17 fifties in 51 matches (83 innings) means scores 50+ every 2.2 matches or 3.6 innings and scores hundred every 8.5 matches or 13.8 innings. Currently not equipped to face top quality test match bowling.

10. Khurram Manzoor - 10923 runs at an average of 37.66 and strike rate of 44.71, 28 hundreds and 51 fifties in 177 matches (307 innings) means scores 50+ every 2.2 matches or 3.8 innings and scores hundred every 6.3 matches or 10.9 innings. He has scored most runs on flat track and struggles even if there is slight movement in pitch.

11. Shan Masood - 7440 runs at an average of 34.60 and strike rate of 46.80, 15 hundreds and 36 fifties in 132 matches (225 innings) means scores 50+ every 2.5 matches or 4.4 innings and scores hundred every 8.8matches or 15 innings. He isn't test match material.

12. Abdul Wahid Bangulzai (Quetta born) - Pakistan U-19 opener hasn't played FC yet just couple of List A and t20 but definitely one for the future with beautiful drives and cuts.

13. Nasir Nawaz - (South Waziristan boy) 450 runs at an average of 32.71 and healthy strike rate of 77.45, 3 fifties in only 7 matches (14 innings). My personal favorite he hits long sixes and technically well equipped just need to sort out short selection.

14. Sahibzada Farhan - 1701 runs at an average of 32.71 and health strike rate of 60.42 , 0 hundreds and 13 fifties in 30 matches (52 innings) means scores 50+ every 2.3 matches or 4 innings. He needs to score hundreds in 4 days but he is more suited to one days where he has lots of performance but he hasn't been given chance.

15. Zeeshan Malik (Chakwal born Former Pakistan U-19 captain) - 1098 runs at an average of 30.50 and health strike rate of 67.69, 1 hundred and 6 fifties in 19 matches (37 innings) means scores 50+ every 2.7 matches or 5.2 innings. He could be tried right now out the lot but needs 1 good season of 1000+ runs.

16. Zeeshan Ashraf (Okara born) - 1500 runs at an average of 28.30 and strike rate of 58.93, 4 hundreds and 5 fifties in 30 matches (53 innings) means scores 50+ every 3.3 matches or 5.8 innings and scores hundred every 7.5 matches or 13.2 innings.

17. Abdullah Shafiq - Just 1 FC match with 133 Runs at SR 63

18. Rizwan Hussain (Pir mahal born) - 1326 runs at an average of 30.83 and good strike rate of 62.28, 3 hundreds and 7 fifties in 24 matches (44 innings) means scores 50 every 2.4 matches or 4.4 innings and hundred in every 8 matches or 14.6 innings. He was taken by Islamabad united couple of seasons back because of his style which looks similar to Sharjeel Khan if you look in distant you will think Sharjeel is batting i hooe he improves because he is one for the future.

19. Tayyib Tahir - (Gujrat born) - 1247 runs at an average of 23.52 and strike rate of 50.96 , 0 hundreds and 8 fifties in 29 matches (56 innings) doesn't look much but this season is his break through season got prompted to first xi in List A and Scored in almost every match and became highest run scorer and List A average 44 , lets see what he does this seasonseason in FC.

20. Mukhtar Ahmed - 1449 runs at an average of 24.55 and strike rate of 59.45 , 3 hundreds and 5 fifties in 33 matches (61 innings) means scores 50 every 4 matches or 7.6 innings and hundred in every 11 matches or 20 innings. Not good technique to survive in 4 day but lets see what he does in furture.

21. Muhammad Akhlaq - (Gujranwala born) - 1047 runs at an average of 26.17 and strike rate of 53.01, 0 hundreds and 7 fifties in 23 matches (44 innings) means scores 50 every 3.2 matches or 6.2 innings. He is also part time wicket keeper but has been touted as one of best hard hitting opener in Pakistan domestic lets see how he does in upcoming seasons.

22. Nauman Anwar - 746 runs at an average of 28.69 and good strike rate of 64.14 , 1 hundreds and 2 fifties in 15 matches (26 innings). He needs to play more FC he is still young and has lots of potential just need to work in NHPC with Muhammad Yousuf.

23. Muhammad Imran Dogar - (Khushal born) - Just 4 FC matches but highest run getter in QAT 2nd xi tournament.

24. Syed Junaid Ali - (Lahore born) - 1033 runs at an average of 23.47 and strike rate of 45.62, 0 hundreds and 2 fifties in 26 matches (47 innings). He is 2nd highest run scorer in QAT 2nd xi and touted as most technically sound opener and he is also wicket keeper. Lets ee what he does.

25. Taimoor Sultan - (Sargodha born) - 242 runs at 20.16 with 1 hundred in 7 matches (13 innings) , not much cricket yet lets see what he does in future scored a century in List A this year.

26. Anas Mustafa - (21 year old) 385 runs at an average of 35 and SR 56 in 6 matches (12 innings)

27. Muhammad Arif - (Abottabad born) - former Pakistan U-19 player known for hitting sixes as a dashing opener.

28. Muhammad Mohsin - (Swat born) - 351 runs at an average of 31 and SR 57 with 1 hundred and 1 fifty and a Legspin allrounder and opener played for Pakistan emerging last year.

29. Azeem Ghuman - (Hyderabad born former Pakistan U-19 captain) 5199 runs at an average of 30.22 and strike rate of 48.54 with 10 hundreds and 22 fifties in 99 matches (177 innings) means scores 50+ every 3 matches or 5.5 innings amd scores hundred every 9.9 matches or 17.7 innings. He has failed to imoress selectors uptill now since his U-19 days lets see how he goes.

30. Ahson Ali - 1114 runs at an average of 27.85 amd very healthy strike rate of 78.23 with 3 hundreds and 1 fifty in 23 matches (40 innings ) is good conversion rate, means he scores 50+ in every 5.7 matches (10 innnings) and hundred 7.6 or 13.3 innings. He is very classy batsman with amazing drives but needs to score more in FC to be considered in tests.

31. Muhammad Huraira - (Sialkot born) he is very young needs to play 3 seasons of FC as he is very poor against Short pitch deliveries.

32. Saim Ayoub - (Karachi born) he looks good technically just needs 3 FC seaons.


No opener averages 40 so now lets look at
Middle order batsman who can be opener:-

1. Usman Salahuddin - 8363 runs at an average of 47.78 and strike rate of 44.23, 24 hundreds and 50 fifties in 128 matches (208 innings) means scores 50+ every 1.7 matches or 2.8 innings and scores hundred every 5.3matches or 8.6 innings. Which is very fantastic record means he scores in almost every other match amd is technically most solid among current player apart from Babar azam. He can be the best opener Pakistan can have for long term right now there in no other readily available options.

2. Muhammad Saad - (Gujrawala born) 5374 runs at an average of 32.56 and strike rate of 42.77, 10 hundreds and 28 fifties in 104 matches (182 innings) means scores 50+ every 3.2 matches or 5.6 innings and scores hundred every 10.4 matches or 18.2 innings. He has also played for Pakistan A in last 2 years lots of matches and scored lots of runs but was never considered especially in Inzamam era, the reason he was selected for Pakistan A was given he is best backfoot player in Pakistan right now and he scored good amount of runs this season too he and Usman Salahuddin were backbone of Central Punjab so lets see how he does.

3. Shoaib Ahmed Manhas - (Rawalpindi born) - 2860 runs at an average of 30.75 and strike rate of 56.73 , 6 hundreds and 9 fifties in 58 matches (102 innings) means scores 50+ every 3.8 matches or 6.8 innings and hundred in every 6.4 matches or 11.3 innings. Thats a great record considered he played almost all matches in KRL ground where 150 odd is average score on those green mambas he definitely is one to watch out for.

4. Umar Amin - 9110 runs at an average of 39.43 and strike rate of 55.67, 22 hundreds and 45 fifties in 142 matches (246 innings) means scores 50+ every 1.8 matches or 3.1 innings and hundred in every 6.4 matches or 11.1 innings.

5. Ali Sarfraz - (Rawalpindi born) - 3977 runs at an average of 31.81 and good strike rate of 61.73, 5 hundreds and 27 fifties in 78 matches (134 innings) means scores 50+ every 2.4 matches or 4.1 innings and hundred in every 15.6 matches or 26.8 innings. He has very strong cut and pull shorts.

6. Sarmad Bhatti - (Khairpur born former Pakistan U-19 Vice-captain) - 2810 runs at an average of 35.12 and strike rate of 42.14 , 4 hundreds and 9 fifties in 54 matches (95 innings) means scores 50+ every 4.1 matches or 7.3 innings and hundred in every 13.5 matches or 23.7 innings.

7. Rohail Nazir - (Islamabad born Pakistan A and Pakistan U-19 Captain) - 741 runs at an average of 39 and strike rate of 54.16 , 2 hundreds and 4 fifties in 11 matches (19 innings) means scores 50+ every 1.8 matches or 3.1 innings and hundred in every 5.5 matches or 9.5 innings. He is only young batsman thats scored 100 in side match in New Zealand on those difficult tracks where all Pakistan test players failed in same match that means he is technically sound and can be tried as opener as also he bats number for Pakistan A and in domestic. He is future captain of Pakistan and needs to be played right now at least against weaker teams because playing Sarfraz as backup aginst them isn't going to do any good.

8. Syed Saad Ali - 4747 runs at an average of 44.36 and good strike rate of 51.56, 11 hundreds and 25 fifties in 74 matches (120 innings) means scores 50+ every 2 matches or 3.3 innings and hundred in every 6.7 matches or 10.9 innings.He was highest run scorer in the dukes ball seasons where teams were getting all out in 120-130 he scored 900 odd runs so he can open for Pakistan in difficult conditions and is experienced enough to do so also as he is number 3 bat.

9. Umair Masood ( Rawalpindi born Former Pakistan U-19 wicket keeper) he has just 19 FC games haven't batted alot just scored a Century last year in a match and showed his potential but was dropped after that surprisingly by Northern. He showed his Talent, Technique and temperament in that Game against West indies quarter final 2016 wc which West indies won he was lone warrier on that deadly seaming track.

10. Ramiz aziz - (Karachi born former Pakistan U-19 player) 4823 runs at an average of 33.26 and good strike rate of 46.78 , 5 hundreds and 31 fifties in 93 matches (159 innings) means scores 50+ every 2.5 matches or 4.4 innings and hundred in every 18.6 matches or 31.8 innings.

Excellent work, and just shows the cupboard indeed is bare.
 
So highest average for opener apart from Sharjeel is Israrullah with an avg 36 so if Israr makes debut for Pakistan he is also excellent slip fielder :yk would accompany Imran Butt in slips nicely.

Jokes apart i think against Bangladesh Usman Salahuddin needs to open and then 2nd opener could be Israr or Imran whoever and groom Zeeshan Malik , Ali Zaryab and Nasir Nawaz in Pakistan A
 
Zain Abbas averaged 45 last season and he has performed on greenest of green tracks with dukes ball on in that season where teams were getting allout for 120-130 he was 2nd or 3rd highest run getter.
 
Averages in the region of 30-40 in FC cricket for openers is not great but it is workable...the problem is, so many have been tried in tests and failed .Is it because they are not persisted with enough? Another huge problem is Pakistan plays so few tests and when they do, nowadays they are all 2 test series, unless they are playing England.

The ICC should mandate a minimum of 3 tests per series to save the test game.
 
next series is bangladesh and we need to get rid of Abid, butt and azhar for that series. fresh faces and move forward.
 
next series is bangladesh and we need to get rid of Abid, butt and azhar for that series. fresh faces and move forward.

Hmmm, I think we gotta still persist with Azhar, he's had a decent year with the bat despite some of those runs being soft runs.

Abid and Butt have been anguish, I don't wanna get rid of Imran but am happy to see the back of Abid despite him being a guy who has a laugh with the team. I mean 16 slips catches in the match was unheard of for a Pak player.

However, Pakistan will be kidding themselves again if both those openers do well against Bangladesh and SL next year before the big home series against Eng, NZ and Aus.
 
Pakistan's domestic openers ranked based upon current FC averages

1. Haider Ali (Avg 46.57, matches 8 )

2. Ahmed Shehzad (Avg 40.32, matches 88, Has test avg of 40 as well)

3. Omair Bin Yousuf (38.59, 22 matches)

4. Umer Siddiq (38,35, 81 matches)

5. Sharjeel Khan (38.30, 85 matches)

6. Abid Ali (37.90, 118 matches)

7. Khurram Manzoor 37.67, 177 matches)

8. Fakhar Zaman (36.95, 51 matches)

9. Israrullah (36.38, 98 matches)

10. Imran Butt (35.17, 74 matches)

11. Imam Ul Haq (35.15, 49 matches)

12. Shan Masood (34.60, 132 matches)

Note: Awais Zia (Played only 1 match last season), Sami Aslam (Is in US), Mohammad Hafeez are excluded from the list.

What do you guys think? Is average a decent parameter to judge and select openers? Which two should be opening for Pakistan in tests?
 
Also worth mentioning Abdullah Shafique played at no 3 in the only FC match he played. So he isnt there in the top 12 openers list.
 
Need to ensure that Abdullah, Haider, Azam, and even the goat slip catcher play as much FC cricket this season as possible. Though Haider and Azam may miss a few matches due to the T20 world cup.

Can't believe Azam left FC to play a T10 league last season.
 
Azhar Ali
Shaan Masood
Asad Shafiq
Babar
Usman Salahuddin
Rizwan
Faheem
Hassan Ali
Numan
Shaheen
Arshad iqbal
 
& let me tell u sami aslam was leaps and bounds ahead of all prospective openers mentioned above..
He played courageously in England in 2016..
It is astonishing to see the treatment he met at the hands of Inzimam as selector who instead of deserving sami aslam promoted his nephew imam....
Big shame for Pak cricket
 
Azhar Ali
Shaan Masood
Asad Shafiq
Babar
Usman Salahuddin
Rizwan
Faheem
Hassan Ali
Numan
Shaheen
Arshad iqbal

let's say for the time being (i.e. Bangladesh series) let's try out this:

Usman Salahuddin
Abdullah Shafiq (been with the team for too long needs to play now)
Saud Shakeel
Babar Azam
Fawad Alam
Mohammad Rizwan
Faheem Ashraf/Nawaz
Hassan Ali
Nauman Ali
Sajid Khan
Shaheen Afridi

better?
 
And how does this thread disprove that they are the best of this sorry bunch?

I think he was referring to post 14. I actually created a thread ranking openers based upon averages without realizing a thread for openers already exist so that is understandably merged to this one as post 14.
 
Usman Salahudin and Saad Ali, the only way they will get into Pakistans test team will be if they start opening for their domestic teams

They both have decent techniques and good temperament to play long innings.

Follow the example of Azhar Ali who used to open for KRL before he was selected for Pakistans test team...
 
I think he was referring to post 14. I actually created a thread ranking openers based upon averages without realizing a thread for openers already exist so that is understandably merged to this one as post 14.

Even so the difference in FC averages are about 3 runs between top and bottom. They're all equally rubbish and nobody stands out.

Imam and Shan happen to have some of the best LA averages which isn't meaningless.
 
Zain Abbas deserves a go, I'm positive about his sucess in tests having top scored and being in top 3 in that season when dukes ball was on and he played for KRL and home matches were more so everyone knows KRL pitch its like green outfield average score was 120-150 still he managed to score and ve in top 3
 
I don’t see why Pakistan cannot try Rana Faheem ‘Lara’ Ashraf as an opener
 
Zain Abbas deserves a go, I'm positive about his sucess in tests having top scored and being in top 3 in that season when dukes ball was on and he played for KRL and home matches were more so everyone knows KRL pitch its like green outfield average score was 120-150 still he managed to score and ve in top 3

I would like to see usman salahuddin open
 
In 70 odd years of Pakistan playing cricket , as far as opening batsmen are concerned only 3 names stand out above the rest :-

- The Little Master of the 50s (HaMo)

- Saeed Anwar

- The Little Master of the Millenium (MoHa)

The rest have sadly disappointed and only delivered mediocre results..
 
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