Babar Azam, the former Pakistan captain, is being seriously considered for a comeback to the national T20I squad ahead of the much-anticipated Asia Cup 2025. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is set to announce the final squad in the second week of August, with Babar’s inclusion largely depending on his performance in the ongoing ODI series against the West Indies.
This potential return comes amid fitness concerns around opener Fakhar Zaman, who is battling an injury that could rule him out of the tournament. Babar, who last featured in a T20I in December 2024, is seen as a stable top-order option to fill the possible void.
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| Babar Azam in Line for T20 |
Pakistan’s Asia Cup 2025 Group Matches
vs Oman – September 12
vs India – September 14
vs UAE – September 17
Pakistan is placed in Group A alongside India, Oman, and the UAE. A strong performance in this group is crucial for qualifying for the Super Four stage.
Team Strategy and Selection Insight The team management reportedly sees Babar’s experience and technical stability as crucial for pressure games, especially against India. His return could strengthen Pakistan’s top order, providing a balance between aggression and composure in high-stakes matchups.
With Fakhar’s status still uncertain, Babar Azam’s ODI outings are under close scrutiny. A good run with the bat in this format could seal his return to the T20I side.
FAQs
1. Is Babar Azam confirmed for Asia Cup 2025? Not yet. His inclusion is likely but will depend on his ODI performance and final fitness evaluations.
2. When will Pakistan’s squad for Asia Cup 2025 be announced? The PCB is expected to announce the official squad in the second week of August 2025.
3. Who might Babar Azam replace in the squad? He is being considered as a potential replacement for Fakhar Zaman, who may miss the tournament due to injury.
4. When is Pakistan’s first match in Asia Cup 2025? Pakistan will play its first match against Oman on September 12, 2025.
5. What is Babar Azam’s recent form? Babar is currently playing in the ODI series against West Indies, and his performance there will influence his T20I selection.
