Ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, Pakistan have suffered a big setback with in-form opener Saim Ayub getting ruled out of the showpiece tournament due to ankle injury.

The Men in Green will play a tri-series, involving New Zealand and South Africa, in the lead-up to the Champions Trophy.

On the eve of the tri-series opener against New Zealand, Pakistan skipper Mohammad Rizwan hinted that Babar Azam will open the innings in the absence of injured Saim.

When pressed about Pakistan’s opening combination, Rizwan responded with a famous phrase, “King kar lega.”

The phrase, which translates to “The King will do it,” was coined by Pakistan pacer Hasan Ali last year, showing his faith in Babar’s ability to deliver under pressure.

Rizwan referenced the remark while addressing concerns over Pakistan’s opening combination in the wake of Saim’s unfortunate injury.

“Iske jawaab mein Hasan ne ek baat ki thi na, 'King kar lega' (Hasan had said something, 'King will do it.'),” said Rizwan during the press conference, reinforcing faith in Babar’s capabilities.

The tri-nation ODI series featuring hosts Pakistan, New Zealand, and South Africa is scheduled to take place from February 8-14. Matches will be held at Lahore’s upgraded Gaddafi Stadium and Karachi’s National Stadium.

Pakistan will open their Champions Trophy campaign against New Zealand on February 19 in Karachi.