Cricholic
Babar and Rizwan will not feature in Pakistan’s 17-member squad for the Asia Cup 2025, surprising fans and analysts. Salman Agha will captain the side, continuing his leadership from earlier this year. Their exclusion sparked debates across social media, as both players have consistently performed in domestic and T20 leagues.
🏏 Babar and Rizwan Miss Recent T20Is
Neither Babar nor Rizwan played in Pakistan’s recent T20I squads, including series against Bangladesh and the West Indies. This absence indicates that Pakistan may pursue a new strategy. Analysts say selectors want younger players to gain experience in high-pressure matches while allowing senior stars time to improve specific skills.
🔥Babar and Rizwan Shine in PSL
In the latest Pakistan Super League:
- Babar Azam: Scored 288 runs at a strike rate of 128.57 for Peshawar Zalmi. He displayed his class but must improve against spin.
- Mohammad Rizwan: Scored 367 runs at a strike rate of 139.54, including a century for Multan Sultans. His consistency and T20 skills impressed fans.
Both last played a T20I in December 2024. Their omission from the Asia Cup squad raised concerns about Pakistan’s batting depth.
💬 Coach Comments on Babar and Rizwan
Head coach Mike Hesson said:
“Babar has been asked to improve his spin play and strike rate. He’s working hard on that. Meanwhile, the current squad has performed exceptionally. Sahibzada Farhan has won three Player of the Match awards in six games. Babar will also have the opportunity to play in the BBL and improve in these areas. He’s too talented not to be considered.”
Hesson confirmed that Pakistan still values their senior stars. The team wants them fully ready for the T20 World Cup next year.
🏆Babar and Rizwan’s Effect on Squad Selection
Salman Agha will lead Pakistan in a tri-series against Afghanistan and UAE before the Asia Cup. The selectors kept all 15 players from Pakistan’s 2-1 series win in the West Indies. Fakhar Zaman, who missed part of that tour with a hamstring injury, has regained full fitness.
Pakistan added left-arm seamer Salman Mirza and allrounder Mohammad Wasim. These changes bring experience and fresh talent. The team prepares to face tough competition in the Asia Cup.
📋 Pakistan Asia Cup 2025 Squad
Salman Agha (c), Abrar Ahmed, Faheem Ashraf, Fakhar Zaman, Haris Rauf, Hasan Ali, Hasan Nawaz, Hussain Talat, Khushdil Shah, Mohammad Haris (wk), Mohammad Nawaz, Mohammad Wasim, Sahibzada Farhan, Saim Ayub, Salman Mirza, Shaheen Afridi, Sufiyan Muqeem
Pakistan will face India in their Asia Cup opener on September 10 at Dubai International Stadium. Fans will watch closely. The absence of Babar & Rizwan may challenge Pakistan’s batting, but young players look ready to step up.
