Pakistan Cricket Board has announced its latest T20 squad, leaving out star cricketers Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan. The decision has shocked cricket fans across the country, as both players have been consistent performers in the shortest format of the game.
Why Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan were dropped
According to PCB officials, the exclusion of the two senior players is part of a new strategy to experiment with fresh talent and give younger cricketers a chance to prove themselves. The board said that while Babar and Rizwan remain important players for Pakistan, the management wants to test new combinations ahead of upcoming international tournaments.
Selectors emphasized that the move doesn’t signal a permanent drop. They introduced it as part of a rotation policy to manage player workload and assess backup options in case of injuries or dips in form.
Reaction from cricket fans and analysts
The news quickly spread on social media, where thousands of fans expressed disappointment. Many argued that leaving out the team’s most reliable batsmen could weaken Pakistan’s batting lineup. Babar, known for his calm and consistent batting style, has been one of the top-ranked T20 batsmen in the world, while Rizwan has earned a reputation as a dependable opener with explosive stroke play.
Cricket analysts, however, offered mixed views. Some supported the decision, saying Pakistan needs to build bench strength and prepare youngsters for future challenges. Others warned that such decisions could damage the team’s confidence if results do not go in Pakistan’s favor.
Opportunity for New Cricket Players in International Tournament
The omission of Babar and Rizwan reflects a changing strategy within Pakistan cricket. The PCB appears determined to avoid over-dependence on a few key players and instead focus on building a strong pool of cricketers who can step up when needed
However, the move comes with risks. Without their two most experienced batters, Pakistan’s middle and top order will face pressure in upcoming matches. If the young players fail to perform, criticism toward the selectors is likely to grow.
The exclusion of Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan from Pakistan’s T20 squad marks a major talking point in cricket circles. While the PCB insists this is part of a long-term plan, fans are divided on whether it will help or hurt the team in the short run. As Pakistan experiments with new talent, all eyes will be on the young cricketers to see if they can rise to the challenge and justify the bold decision.
