Former Pakistan captain Babar Azam is being considered for a return to the national T20I squad ahead of the T20 tri-series and Asia Cup 2025, sources revealed on Tuesday.
The development comes amid growing concerns over Fakhar Zaman’s injury, which has ruled the left-handed opener out of both the T20I and ODI series against the West Indies.
Fakhar Zaman’s Injury Raises Concerns
Fakhar picked up a hamstring injury during the recent T20I leg of the West Indies tour. Following the injury, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) instructed him to return from Florida and report to the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Lahore for rehabilitation.
While PCB’s medical staff continues to monitor his recovery, his availability for the Asia Cup remains uncertain. Sources indicate that the board is already exploring backup options, and Babar Azam has emerged as a leading candidate.
Babar’s Comeback Depends on ODI Performance
According to insiders, Babar’s potential return to the T20I squad hinges on his performance in the ongoing ODI series against the West Indies. If he performs well and meets the expectations of the selectors, he could be included in the final squad for both the tri-series and the Asia Cup.
This would mark a significant comeback for Babar, who was previously sidelined as part of Pakistan’s strategic overhaul following a string of underwhelming results in T20 cricket.
Meeting with PCB Chief Sparks Speculation
Babar recently met PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi during the second T20I against West Indies, along with Mohammad Rizwan and Naseem Shah. The meeting has fueled speculation that senior players could play a key role in the team’s strategy moving forward.
Squad Announcement Expected Soon
The final squad for the tri-series and Asia Cup 2025 is expected to be announced in the second week of August, according to reports.
Pakistan will first compete in a T20I tri-nation series with Afghanistan and UAE, starting August 29 in Sharjah, before heading into the Asia Cup, which kicks off on September 9.
Asia Cup 2025 – Pakistan’s Fixtures
Pakistan is placed in Group A of the Asia Cup alongside India, UAE, and Oman.
- September 12: Pakistan vs Oman
- September 14: Pakistan vs India
- September 17: Pakistan vs UAE
Group B features Bangladesh, Afghanistan, Sri Lanka, and Hong Kong.
The tournament opens on September 9 with a Group B clash between Afghanistan and Hong Kong. A total of eight teams will compete, with the top two from each group advancing to the Super Four stage, followed by the final on September 28.
What’s Next for Babar and Fakhar?
As fans wait for the official squad, all eyes are now on Babar Azam’s ODI performance and whether he can force his way back into Pakistan’s white-ball setup. On the other hand, Fakhar’s rehabilitation remains a concern for the management, with a final call on his participation expected closer to the squad announcement.
