Asia Cup: il PCB ha annunciato la squadra pakistana domenica, che non avevano Babar Azam e Mohammad Rizwan.
Both Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan were left out of the Pakistan squad for the Asia Cup 2025. And why not. The duo had not played even a single T20I match in 2025, and instead the likes of Fakhar Zaman, Saim Ayub and Sahibzada Farhan deserved a chance. Addressing the non-selection of Babar and Rizwan, Pakistan selector Aaqib Javed offered an explanation.
End of the Road for Babar Azam & Mohammad Rizwan?
He went on to say that the team was selected on the basis of merit and the likes of Babar and Rizwan were not ignored. “Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan were not part of the previous three series, while Saim, Fakhar, and Sahibzada Farhan featured in the top order,” Aaqib was quoted as saying by GeoSuper.
“It’s not like you ignore someone or select someone based on just two matches’ performance. These things often get highlighted in the media, but as a player, you face different challenges at different times. Everyone who wants to play has opportunities,” he added. He also highlighted that in T20 cricket, strike-rate and ability to score runs is of utmost importance.
Aaqib Javed Says Players Not Ignored
It is important to note that Babar & Rizwan’s strike-rate in the format stands at a poor 129 and 125, respectively. “In T20 cricket, two factors are crucial: your ability to score runs and your strike rate according to the match situation and environment. That is what we always consider.”
Aaqib assured that the duo are not completely sidelined. “It’s not that we are completely sidelining them. The current choices reflect how a player develops. I’ve given examples of Sahibzada Farhan, Saim, and Fakhar. Sahibzada made a comeback, Saim initially struggled but later created an impact,” he stated.
Pakistan Can Beat India, Feels Selector
“You can’t put a full stop on any player’s career—opportunities are always there. Right now, they’re gaining experience in leagues like the Big Bash and PSL. Whoever performs will play, and only those who perform deserve to play,” he added.
In the context of the India vs Pakistan matches, the selector said, “Pakistan’s T20 team can beat India. India vs Pakistan matches are always huge. This 17-member squad can defeat any team. We shouldn’t put pressure on them, but I have high hopes for this squad,” he stated.
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PCB cade Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan dalla squadra Asia Cup 2025 del Pakistan
