By our correspondent
LAHORE: Pakistan’s premier white-ball duo Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan were dropped from the T20I squad for the tour of New Zealand earlier this year, prompting many to wonder whether they would return to the side any time soon.
According to reports, both Babar and Rizwan are unlikely to feature in the upcoming five-match T20I series against Bangladesh, as the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) appears set to continue its shift towards a younger, more aggressive playing group ahead of the 2026 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup.
Despite being Pakistan’s all-time leading T20I run-scorers, Babar and Rizwan have not played a T20 international since 13 December 2024. While many fans had expected their return following the conclusion of HBL PSL 2025, sources indicate that the PCB is not currently considering the experienced pair for the home series.
Since late 2024, the team management has been experimenting with a new approach, moving away from the stability of the Babar-Rizwan opening partnership in favour of a more explosive top order. While this transition has yet to yield consistent results—highlighted by the 4-1 series defeat to New Zealand earlier this year—the selectors remain committed to a long-term overhaul.
The series, which forms part of Pakistan’s build-up to next year’s T20 World Cup, is scheduled from 25 May to 3 June, with matches to be held at Iqbal Stadium in Faisalabad and Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore. Originally planned as a mix of ODIs and T20Is under the Future Tours Program (FTP), the format was revised to five T20Is to maximise preparation time for the World Cup.
