Are Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan Done with T20Is?
A major shift is unfolding in Pakistan cricket with Babar and Rizwan missing from the T20I squad.They have not been selected for the upcoming T20I series against Bangladesh, raising big questions. PCB now seems to limit both players to the ODI format moving forward.This change marks the beginning of a bold new direction for the national T20I setup.
In a recent media statement, Amir Mir, Advisor to the PCB Chairman, offered clarification. He said, “The players you’re talking about are usually part of the ODI team.” He added, “This squad is for T20Is,” subtly hinting at a planned shift in formats. That simple comment sparked strong speculation about their T20I future.Many now believe Babar and Rizwan are no longer central to Pakistan’s T20I strategy. PCB appears ready to invest in younger, more aggressive players for the shortest format.
Babar and Rizwan Focus on ODIs Over T20s
Both players have long anchored Pakistan’s T20I batting with consistency and experience. However, recent performances, especially during the 2024 T20 World Cup, triggered widespread criticism from fans and analysts.
Many questioned their strike rates and lack of explosive intent in high-pressure games. These concerns likely pushed PCB to rethink its T20I strategy and prioritize aggressive top-order options.
By excluding them from the Bangladesh series, PCB shows a clear shift in direction. This decision also hints at possible exclusion from the upcoming Asia Cup 2025 squad. Instead, PCB now backs younger players like Mohammad Haris, Saim Ayub, and Sahibzada Farhan with growing confidence.
Future Still Bright — But Not in T20Is?
While Babar and Rizwan still dominate in ODIs, their roles in T20Is look uncertain.They are expected to remain key for Pakistan in the ODI World Cup 2027. However, unless there’s a major form slump among younger T20 options, both players may not return to the format anytime soon.
A Bold Transition
The current decisions reflect a bold rebuild under new management and coaching staff. Pakistan seems committed to evolving beyond the Babar-Rizwan era in T20Is, even if it stirs debate. The next few months will reveal whether this approach brings the consistency Pakistan seeks — or if experience is missed when pressure mounts.
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