Senior Players Left Out of Asia Cup Squad
Sharjah – Pakistan fast bowler Shaheen Shah Afridi has spoken about the absence of star batsmen Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan from the squad announced for the upcoming Asia Cup.
Both cricketers have been central to Pakistan’s batting lineup for much of the past decade. Since the 2021 T20 World Cup, they have featured in nearly every major tournament for the national side. However, following Pakistan’s series against South Africa in December 2024, neither has appeared in the shortest format.
Their exclusion from the Asia Cup squad has raised eyebrows among fans, former players, and analysts. Many expressed disappointment on social media, questioning the selectors’ strategy ahead of one of Asia’s biggest cricketing events.
Shaheen Afridi Urges Support for Young Talent
Speaking to journalists during a training session at Sharjah Cricket Stadium, Shaheen Afridi said that while Babar and Rizwan remain world-class performers, the team must also give opportunities to emerging players.
“Babar and Rizwan are world-class players who have delivered consistently for Pakistan. God willing, they will return. But it is equally important to provide chances to younger cricketers and stand by them,” he remarked.
Afridi added, “Even I may not always remain part of the team in the future. Everyone should get their chance. Our job as senior players is to guide and support them.”
Focus on Upcoming Challenges
Looking ahead, Afridi emphasized that Pakistan is fully focused on preparing for the Asia Cup. The team will first compete in a triangular T20 series involving Afghanistan and the United Arab Emirates from August 29 to September 7. The Asia Cup begins shortly afterward, on September 9.
“The tri-nation series will serve as good preparation. In T20 cricket, no team is easy to beat. Our first target is the tri-series, and then the Asia Cup,” Afridi said.
Addressing Rumors of Dressing Room Divisions
When asked about speculation regarding divisions within the squad, Afridi dismissed such claims. He likened the team atmosphere to a family, acknowledging that minor disagreements can occur but should not be exaggerated.
“These are things we mostly hear from outside. In reality, there is no such issue in the team. Even in families, small disagreements happen, but they remain inside. Our responsibility is to play cricket for Pakistan and bring joy to our people,” he explained.
Context: Pakistan’s Preparations and Expectations
The Asia Cup holds special significance for Pakistan, not only as a chance to compete against regional rivals but also as crucial preparation for the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy, which Pakistan is set to host. With Babar and Rizwan absent, selectors have placed greater responsibility on younger batters to step up.
Babar Azam, who has captained Pakistan in all three formats, is regarded as one of the finest batsmen of his generation. Alongside Mohammad Rizwan, he formed one of the most reliable opening partnerships in international T20 cricket. Their absence means Pakistan will test new combinations at the top of the order.
According to International Cricket Council (ICC) data, Babar Azam has scored more than 3,500 runs in T20 internationals, while Rizwan has consistently ranked among the top five T20 batters globally in recent years. Their contribution to Pakistan’s limited-overs success has been immense, making their exclusion all the more striking.
Balancing Experience with Fresh Energy
Afridi’s remarks underline a broader debate in Pakistan cricket: how to balance experienced campaigners with younger prospects. Selectors have often faced criticism either for over-reliance on senior players or for introducing too many changes at once.
With the Asia Cup around the corner, the performance of emerging players will be closely monitored. Success could ease the transition and reduce the pressure to recall senior stars immediately. Failure, however, may fuel renewed calls for the return of Babar and Rizwan to the T20 setup.
For now, Afridi’s message is clear — unity, discipline, and faith in new talent must guide the team as they prepare for a demanding season of international cricket.
