Babar Azam Comeback? Naseem Shah Fit Again? Pakistan Selection Twist Ahead of T20 Series Against SA

Lahore: Selection committee is likely to bring back Babar Azam and Naseem Shah for the T20I series against South Africa later this month. Selectors are making core decisions before T20 World Cup 2026. Would these decisions be effective for the team? Fans are curious to see the final playing XI.

A member of the selection committee confirmed that discussions are ongoing, but made it clear that experience will not be ignored in this phase.

“No door is closed. Every player is being judged on merit and team needs,” the official said, hinting that the upcoming squad will reflect “clarity rather than experimentation.”

Babar has not featured in T20Is since Pakistan’s 2024 tour of South Africa, but Naseem has been out of the format since his shoulder injury against Australia last November.

Both players are fully fit and have been training regularly at the NCA in Lahore in recent weeks. Their potential return would immediately strengthen two problem areas for Pakistan, which are top-order stability and new-ball control. Will Pakistan perform well after these world-class performers? Can fans see the performance they want from the Pakistani team? Well, it is too early to say anything about it, but the final playing XI for the World Cup 2026 would give an idea.

Over the last five T20I series, Pakistan have shuffled opening pairs, tried a rotating captaincy, and struggled with the ball. The selectors now appear ready to pull back from constant changes and reintroduce players trusted in high-pressure games.

The T20 series against South Africa begins from October 28 in Rawalpindi, followed by two matches in Lahore on October 30 and November 1. The ODI leg will be played in Faisalabad from 

November 4–8. The squad announcement is expected soon, and if Babar and Naseem return, it may trigger big selection calls elsewhere, likely in the top three and fast-bowling group.

This is no longer the trial season for Pakistan. The countdown to the World Cup 2026 has started, and decisions now will shape the team’s identity.

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