India, Feb. 3 -- Former cricketer Basit Ali made a scathing attack on former skipper Babar Azam ahead of the Champions Trophy. Babar, who lost his captaincy after last year's T20 World Cup, is expected to open the innings in the upcoming ICC mega event as Saim Ayub has been ruled out of the tournament due to injury. However, Basit suggested that the opening position could become an excuse for Babar if he fails to perform in the Champions Trophy, and his place in the team will remain intact irrespective of how many runs he scores.

Basit hopes that Babar delivers for the defending champions in the tournament.

"Babar's place in the team will remain unaffected, irrespective of his performance in the Champions Trophy. I hope Babar performs. ...