Why Are Babar, Rizwan, and Afridi Missing from Pakistan's T20I Squad Against Bangladesh?
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Synopsis
Pakistan has announced a 16-player squad for the T20I series against Bangladesh, with notable absences including Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, and Shaheen Afridi. Coach Mike Hesson will lead the team as they look to make an impact in the series. Discover the reasons behind these selections and the players stepping up.
Key Takeaways
- Absence of key players Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, and Shaheen Afridi.
- Mike Hesson's debut series as head coach.
- Focus on player performance in the Pakistan Super League.
- Salman Ali Agha appointed as captain.
- Return of Saim Ayub from injury.
Lahore, May 21 (NationPress) Pakistan has announced a 16-player squad for the upcoming T20I series at home against Bangladesh. Notably, former captain Babar Azam, seasoned wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan, and pace leader Shaheen Afridi are missing from the lineup.
The PCB stated that the squad selection was influenced by players' performances in the ongoing Pakistan Super League (PSL) season. This isn't the first instance of Babar, Rizwan, and Afridi being left out of the T20 format; they were also omitted from the T20I series against New Zealand earlier in April, although they participated in the ODI matches.
The three-match series is set to occur at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore and will mark Mike Hesson's debut as coach, with the schedule to be unveiled soon.
Batter Salman Ali Agha will lead the team, supported by all-rounder Shadab Khan as vice-captain, while seasoned players Fakhar Zaman, Haris Rauf, and Naseem Shah are also part of the squad.
Pakistan's lineup will see the return of explosive batter Saim Ayub, who recently recovered from an ankle injury sustained during the South Africa tour earlier this year. Ayub had to withdraw midway through the tour but has made a strong comeback in the current PSL season.
Additionally, 29-year-old Sahibzada Farhan has earned a place back in the T20I setup for the first time since 2018, thanks to his impressive PSL performances, scoring 394 runs from 10 matches at a strike rate of 154.50, leading the event's run charts.
Pakistan squad: Salman Ali Agha (c), Shadab Khan (vc), Abrar Ahmed, Faheem Ashraf, Fakhar Zaman, Haris Rauf, Hasan Ali, Hassan Nawaz, Hussain Talat, Khushdil Shah, Mohammad Haris, Mohammad Wasim Jnr, Muhammad Irfan Khan, Naseem Shah, Sahibzada Farhan, Saim Ayub
Point of View
I believe that the selection of the squad reflects a shift in strategy aimed at strengthening the team's future. While the absence of renowned players like Babar, Rizwan, and Afridi raises eyebrows, it opens doors for new talent and reinforces the idea that performance, especially in domestic leagues, is paramount. This proactive approach may yield positive results for Pakistan cricket.
NationPress
08/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why were Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan left out of the squad?
Their exclusion is based on performances in the ongoing PSL, indicating a shift towards prioritizing form over experience.
Who is the new coach for the Pakistan T20I team?
Mike Hesson has been appointed as the new coach for the T20I series against Bangladesh.
What is the significance of the upcoming T20I series?
This series provides an opportunity for emerging players to showcase their talent on an international stage.
Where will the T20I matches be held?
The matches will take place at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore.
Who will captain the Pakistan T20I team?
Salman Ali Agha will lead the team, with Shadab Khan as vice-captain.
