Why Are Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan Missing from Pakistan's Asia Cup Squad?
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Synopsis
In a surprising move, Pakistan has dropped star players Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan from their Asia Cup squad. The decision highlights the selectors' commitment to nurturing new talent, while Salman Ali Agha takes the lead. What does this mean for Pakistan's cricketing future?
Key Takeaways
- Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan excluded from Asia Cup squad.
- Team led by Salman Ali Agha.
- Focus on emerging players like Hasan Nawaz and Salman Mirza.
- Pakistan begins their campaign against Oman on September 12.
- Key senior players retained for experience.
Lahore, Aug 17 (NationPress) Pakistan has decided to omit the experienced pair of Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan from the upcoming Asia Cup, with Salman Ali Agha set to captain the T20I team.
The eight-team ACC Asia Cup T20I tournament is scheduled to take place in Abu Dhabi and Dubai from September 9 to 28. Pakistan finds itself in Group ‘A’ alongside India, Oman, and UAE. Their campaign kicks off against Oman on September 12, leading up to a highly anticipated match against their rivals India on September 14.
Babar and Rizwan participated in the recently completed three-match ODI series against the West Indies. The wicketkeeper-batter has been the captain for Pakistan in the 50-over format. However, both players have not been included in the T20I squad since last year.
Despite rumors suggesting a potential recall for Babar and Rizwan, the selectors reaffirmed their strategy, choosing to support emerging talent for the upcoming T20I tri-series and the Asia Cup 2025.
Only a few senior players, including ace pacer Shaheen Afridi, express quick Haris Rauf, and dependable batters Fakhar Zaman and Khushdil Shah, have retained the selectors’ faith for the forthcoming matches. Additionally, wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Haris remains in the squad.
The selectors have also shown confidence in promising young talents such as Hasan Nawaz, Salman Mirza, and Sufyan Moqim, indicating a strong emphasis on new talent.
The 17-member squad announced for the continental tournament will also compete in an upcoming T20I tri-series featuring Afghanistan, Pakistan, and UAE, taking place at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium from August 29 to September 7.
Pakistan squad: Salman Ali Agha (captain), Abrar Ahmed, Faheem Ashraf, Fakhar Zaman, Haris Rauf, Hasan Ali, Hasan Nawaz, Hussain Talat, Khushdil Shah, Mohammad Haris (wicket-keeper), Mohammad Nawaz, Mohammad Waseem Jnr, Sahibzada Farhan, Saim Ayub, Salman Mirza, Shaheen Shah Afridi, and Sufyan Moqim.
Point of View
It's crucial to recognize the selectors' bold choice to prioritize emerging talent over established stars. While the absence of Babar and Rizwan raises eyebrows, it also reflects a strategic vision for the long-term growth of Pakistan cricket. Our nation must embrace this shift and support the new generation as they strive for excellence on the international stage.
NationPress
19/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why were Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan left out of the squad?
The selectors opted to focus on emerging talents for the upcoming Asia Cup and T20I tri-series, prioritizing youth over experience.
Who is captaining the Pakistan team for the Asia Cup?
Salman Ali Agha will lead the Pakistan team in the Asia Cup, stepping in as captain for this tournament.
When does the Asia Cup start?
The Asia Cup is scheduled to start on September 9 and will run until September 28.
Which teams are in Pakistan's group for the Asia Cup?
Pakistan is in Group 'A' alongside India, Oman, and the UAE.
What is the significance of this squad selection?
This selection signifies a strategic shift towards nurturing young talent, which could shape the future of Pakistan cricket.
