Why Are Babar, Rizwan, and Shaheen Excluded from Pakistan's T20 Tours?
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Synopsis
In a surprising move, the Pakistan cricket selectors have decided to exclude former captains Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, and Shaheen Shah Afridi from the T20 squads for the upcoming tours of Bangladesh and the West Indies. This decision has sparked discussions about the future of these players in the national team.
Key Takeaways
- Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, and Shaheen Shah Afridi excluded from T20 squads.
- Selection based on recent performances and strategic shift.
- Focus on young talent for upcoming series.
- Pakistan's management aims to build a strong backup for future competitions.
- Upcoming matches against Bangladesh and West Indies.
Mumbai, June 10 (NationPress) The national senior men's selection committee has chosen to overlook former captains Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, and pace bowler Shaheen Shah Afridi, omitting them from the T20 squads for the upcoming tours to Bangladesh and the West Indies.
According to a report by Telecom Asia Sport (www.telecomasia.net), the Pakistan selectors made this decision after discussions with white-ball head coach Mike Hesson and captain Salman Agha.
The choice appears to be influenced by their recent performances in white-ball formats and the ICC Champions Trophy.
Rizwan led Pakistan to a disappointing 2-0 T20 series loss in South Africa, where Babar was also part of the team. Following this, both players were excluded from the New Zealand tour and the home series against Bangladesh.
“The management and selection committee are keen to move forward from Babar and Rizwan, even though both Hesson and Salman indicated that the door wasn’t completely closed for the two former openers. Their struggle with strike rates and batting form in T20Is contributed to Pakistan’s recent losses,” a senior official from the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) told www.telecomasia.net.
The selection committee, which now includes former captain Sarfaraz Ahmed and ex-pacer Sikander Bakht as observers, has confirmed that the lineups for the three-match T20I series in Bangladesh and the West Indies will not feature these underperforming players, according to another source.
Pakistan is set to face Bangladesh on July 20, 22, and 24 before heading to Florida for five T20Is against the West Indies.
The report further indicated that Hesson had preferred to include Babar and Rizwan for the Bangladesh series, but former star Aaqib Javed insisted on giving opportunities to younger players in a relatively manageable home series, sources revealed.
Shaheen was part of the squad during the New Zealand tour, where he struggled against Tim Siefert as Pakistan lost the series 4-1. He managed only two wickets in four matches with an economy rate of 10.23 and was left out of the final game, as reported.
Sources also mentioned that claims regarding Shaheen being uncooperative with the captain and team management worked against him.
The report stated that Hesson met with all three stars – Babar, Shaheen, and Rizwan – during preparation sessions in Lahore to discuss strategies for selection and outline plans for the three players.
Sources indicated that captain Salman Agha opposed Shaheen’s inclusion, aiming to focus on nurturing younger talents and building a robust backup.
Pakistan is also scheduled to participate in T20I series against Afghanistan, Ireland, South Africa, Sri Lanka, and Australia to strengthen their lineup in preparation for next year’s World Cup, which will take place in India and Sri Lanka.
Point of View
It's essential to recognize that the selection committee's decision reflects a strategic shift in Pakistan cricket. While Babar, Rizwan, and Shaheen have been pivotal figures, their recent performances have prompted the management to explore fresh talent. This approach aims to strengthen the team and prepare for upcoming challenges, emphasizing the need for adaptability and forward-thinking in a competitive landscape.
NationPress
21/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why were Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan dropped from the T20 squads?
They were excluded based on recent performances and the need to explore new talent in the team.
Who made the decision to drop these players?
The national senior men's selection committee, in consultation with head coach Mike Hesson and captain Salman Agha, made this decision.
What upcoming series are Pakistan scheduled to play?
Pakistan will play T20I series against Bangladesh and the West Indies, along with other teams like Afghanistan and Australia.
Is this the end for Babar and Rizwan in the national team?
While they have been dropped, the selectors have indicated that the door is not completely closed for their return.
What is the significance of this selection decision?
This decision underscores a strategic shift in Pakistan cricket, focusing on nurturing younger players and preparing for future competitions.
