Former Cricketers Lament Babar Azam’s Absence from Pakistan Squad After Bangladesh Defeat

Bangladesh gave a big thrashing to the young Pakistan team by winning the first ODI at Dhaka convincingly. They remained dominant from the start of the play, as the green shirts looked totally clueless against the class of Nahid Rana in the first innings.

Following the defeat, some of the former cricketers like Ahmad Shehzad and Ramiz Raja lamented the absence of Babar Azam from the ODI squad. They believe Babar should be playing in the team, as his experience always comes handy in the middle order.

"I have warned you beforehand about what Bangladesh can do in [their] back yard [and] how important will [be] Babar Azam in the middle, but like always, 'Apko Sub Pata hai'," said Ahmad Shehzad in a social media post.

"Pakistan needed a top notch selection after the worst ever [World Cup] campaign but guess what, same method will [be] applied once again bring dozens of youngsters, expose them in the worst possible combination, humiliate them [and] bring back proven failures yet again. Even hopes are dying in this current setup." added Ahmad Shehzad.

Former Pakistan captain Ramiz Raja also shared a similar opinion, saying that Babar Azam’s place in the ODI team is non-negotiable. He added that Babar is a ‘giant’ in the ODI format, as his stats and average speak volumes about his credibility.

"Against a top-quality bowling opposition, you need a technical hand. Yes, Babar Azam's form may have been iffy, but it was never in ODI cricket. I mean, he is a giant in ODIs. His record is phenomenal. Average over 50 and he gets them at a good pace," said Ramiz Raja.

He further added that the Pakistan team needs experienced players who can guide the youngsters, so Babar Azam is one of those names that should be in the team.

"Pakistan needs experience also. When you talk about youngsters, you should make sure your fallback position is secure as well. Babar Azam gives them that fallback position," said Ramiz Raja.