Why is Babar Azam Missing from T20Is as Shaheen Afridi Makes His Comeback for Pakistan’s West Indies Tour?
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Synopsis
The Pakistan Cricket Board has made headlines with the announcement of squads for the West Indies tour, featuring the notable return of Shaheen Shah Afridi to the T20I team while Babar Azam remains absent from the format. Discover the implications of these selections as Pakistan prepares for an exciting series of matches.
Key Takeaways
- Shaheen Shah Afridi returns to strengthen the T20I squad.
- Babar Azam remains absent, indicating a shift towards youth.
- Pakistan's tour consists of three T20Is and three ODIs.
- Mohammad Rizwan leads the ODI squad as captain.
- New talents are being integrated into the team.
Lahore, July 25 (NationPress) The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has revealed the squads for the forthcoming white-ball series against the West Indies, highlighting two significant developments - the return of Shaheen Shah Afridi to the T20I team and the ongoing absence of former captain Babar Azam from the shortest format.
Afridi, who was sidelined during the recent series against Bangladesh, has been brought back to strengthen Pakistan's pace attack for the three-match T20I series in Florida. The left-arm fast bowler will join fellow speedsters Haris Rauf and Hasan Ali in a formidable bowling lineup.
On the other hand, despite being included in the ODI squad, Babar Azam is still not favored for T20Is as selectors lean towards a younger team led by Agha Salman.
In the ODI format, Mohammad Rizwan will assume the role of captain, with Agha Salman serving as vice-captain. Afridi, Naseem Shah, and Abdullah Shafique are also part of the 50-over squad for the three-match series in Trinidad, while seasoned batsman Fakhar Zaman maintains his position across formats.
Interestingly, Salman Mirza and Ahmed Daniyal, who showcased impressive performances during the Bangladesh series, have not been included in the T20I squad. Rising talents Saim Ayub, Hasan Nawaz, and Sahibzada Farhan, along with experienced all-rounder Mohammad Nawaz, contribute depth to the T20I batting lineup.
The tour will consist of six white-ball matches - three T20Is in Florida, followed by three ODIs in Trinidad.
Pakistan's T20I squad against West Indies: Salman Ali Agha (captain), Abrar Ahmed, Faheem Ashraf, Fakhar Zaman, Haris Rauf, Hasan Ali, Hasan Nawaz, Hussain Talat, Khushdil Shah, Mohammad Haris (wk), Mohammad Nawaz, Sahibzada Farhan (wk), Saim Ayub, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Sufyan Moqim.
Pakistan's ODI squad against West Indies: Mohammad Rizwan (captain), Salman Ali Agha (vice-captain), Abdullah Shafique, Abrar Ahmed, Babar Azam, Faheem Ashraf, Fakhar Zaman, Hasan Ali, Hasan Nawaz, Hussain Talat, Mohammad Haris (wk), Mohammad Nawaz, Naseem Shah, Saim Ayub, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Sufyan Moqim.
Point of View
It's crucial to recognize the PCB’s strategic choices. While Babar Azam's absence from T20Is raises eyebrows, the focus on nurturing a younger squad is a long-term investment for Pakistan cricket. The return of Afridi strengthens the bowling attack, showcasing a balance between experience and youth. Pakistan is poised for an exciting series, blending tradition with fresh talent.
NationPress
26/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Babar Azam not included in the T20I squad?
Babar Azam has been left out of the T20I squad as selectors are focusing on a younger core led by Agha Salman, despite his inclusion in the ODI team.
Who is the captain of Pakistan's T20I team against West Indies?
Salman Ali Agha has been appointed as the captain of Pakistan's T20I squad for the series against West Indies.
What is the schedule for Pakistan's tour of West Indies?
Pakistan's tour will consist of six white-ball matches: three T20Is in Florida and three ODIs in Trinidad.
Who are the key players in Pakistan's ODI squad?
Key players in Pakistan's ODI squad include Mohammad Rizwan as captain, Babar Azam, Shaheen Shah Afridi, and Fakhar Zaman.
What impact does Shaheen Afridi's return have on the team?
Shaheen Afridi's return significantly strengthens Pakistan's pace attack, providing a vital edge in the series against West Indies.
