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July 4, 2025

Aqib Javed opens up on conversations with Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan

Aqib Javed opens up on conversations with Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan
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Newly appointed Pakistan white-ball coach Aqib Javed has addressed recent discussions around Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan, stressing that neither player is permanently sidelined and emphasizing their ongoing value to Pakistan cricket.

Javed firmly dismissed rumors of any permanent exclusion, stating: “Whether it’s Babar or any other player, the game is open to everyone. If Babar or anyone else performs well, they will earn their place.”

Similarly, he clarified that moves to revamp the T20 squad—including rotating experienced hands—are part of a broader strategic reset, not a reflection of personal disapproval.

Explaining the rationale, Aqib remarked: “We feel the need to introduce a younger group of players and change our style of play and mindset.”

This includes exploring separation between T20 and ODI squads, akin to models used by other leading cricket nations.

Despite recent underwhelming T20 performances—Rizwan averaged just 15.66 in three matches against Australia—Aqib praised both players as indispensable: “Senior players like Babar and Rizwan have a value. They performed over the years for Pakistan.”

He emphasized their contributions to ODI cricket, affirming they retain pivotal roles if form returns.

Aqib clarified that changes—such as opening Rizwan in ODIs—aim to optimize roles and rediscover rhythm, not diminish importance. “[Rizwan] looks in a hurry in the ODI format... he should focus more on rotating the strike,” he said.

In the longer T20 narrative, he maintained that adjustments including younger talent are part of a "clear message" on desired tenacity and style.

  • Asia Cup & 2026 T20 World Cup lie ahead, with core squads expected to stabilize and depend on performance.
     
  • Senior players like Babar and Rizwan will have to reaffirm their form to remain in contention.
     
  • Javed has also announced upcoming camps—including red-ball and white-ball sessions in July—plus expansion of Pakistan’s high-performance and women’s program infrastructure.

Aqib Javed's comments signal an inclusive reset—not an abrupt departure—of Pakistan’s white-ball strategy. Both Babar Azam and Rizwan retain their place in the conversation, but their futures now lie in consistent performance and tactical adaptation under a refreshed coaching direction.


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