Did PCB Announce Pakistan Squad Too Early Before Bangladesh Series?
Pakistan Cricket Board announced the T20 squad too quickly, just hours after the PSL 2025 final. Many fans and experts are now asking a big question — why was Muhammad Naeem not included? His brilliant performance in the PSL 2025 final made a strong case.
Muhammad Naeem PSL Stats: Consistent, Powerful, and Clutch
Muhammad Naeem is a 26-year-old batter from FATA, who played his first-ever PSL season this year. Despite being new, he impressed everyone with his aggressive strokeplay. He scored 314 runs in 12 innings, hitting 3 vital fifties in key matches. His strike rate stayed above 140, and he smashed 23 sixes in the tournament. In the PSL final, he scored a blazing 46 off 27 balls, including 6 sixes, giving Lahore Qalandars a rapid start.
Naeem Crowned PSL 2025 Emerging Player
Muhammad Naeem was named Emerging Player of PSL 2025 after a sensational turnaround season for Lahore Qalandars. Despite a rocky start, the young opener showed remarkable composure and flair in the knockout stages, proving his potential on the big stage. His fearless batting and ability to perform under pressure won him praise from fans and experts alike.
Six-Sixes Hero in the Final
In the PSL 2025 final, Naeem etched his name into history by smashing 6 sixes, thrilling a packed Gaddafi Stadium. His explosive hitting turned the tide in Lahore’s favor and sealed their third PSL title. Along with his 50 off 24 balls in the eliminator, Naeem’s heroics earned him the Emerging Player award and possibly a bright future with Pakistan’s national squad.
Hassan Nawaz In, Naeem Out: Fair or Too Soon to Decide?
While Hassan Nawaz earned a well-deserved spot in the Pakistan T20 squad, many believe Muhammad Naeem also deserved inclusion. With Bangladesh not posing the strongest challenge, this was an ideal opportunity to test fresh talent. Naeem’s explosive form and confidence made a strong case for his debut.
Hassan Nawaz, who had already featured against New Zealand, continued his good run with solid performances throughout PSL 2025 — including a key role in the final. However, Naeem’s match-winning contributions and power-hitting under pressure arguably outshone others. The PCB might have leaned towards experience, but form like Naeem’s is hard to ignore for long.
Why Was Muhammad Naeem Not Picked? Some Valid Reasons
There are also strong reasons behind Naeem’s exclusion:
- First time playing PSL, still gaining exposure.
- Very limited domestic experience before PSL.
- Needs to prove consistency across formats and conditions.
- Selection committee prefers players with longer performance history.
Still, his impact in high-pressure games can’t be ignored. Few batters shine this bright in finals, especially on debut seasons.
Did PCB Miss a Trick? Bangladesh Series Was Ideal for Newcomers? The series against Bangladesh could’ve been a low-risk chance to test Naeem. He could’ve learned from senior players, got international exposure, and built confidence. Now, he might have to wait for another season or domestic run.
Naeem Proves He’s Built for the Big Stage
Big players deliver when it matters most — and Muhammad Naeem did just that in the PSL 2025 final. With thousands watching and the pressure sky-high, Naeem embraced the moment and proved his temperament. He stepped up when his team needed him the most, showing that true stars are forged under pressure.
Naeem’s aggressive approach stunned the opposition as he launched six sixes in the final. His power-hitting ability and fearless intent turned the game around for Lahore Qalandars. By taking on senior bowlers with confidence, he announced himself as a match-winner and a future force in Pakistan cricket.
Conclusion
Muhammad Naeem’s performance deserves attention. If he continues this form, Pakistan selectors will find it hard to ignore him in the future.
Also read this : https://cric92.com/psl/muhammad-naeem-the-product-of-lahore-qalandars-persistence/