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July 10, 2025

Frontline stars ignored again as Pakistan name squad for Bangladesh T20Is

Frontline stars ignored again as Pakistan name squad for Bangladesh T20Is
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The Pakistan Cricket Board has once again overlooked senior white-ball stalwarts Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, and Shaheen Shah Afridi as it announced its 15-player squad for the upcoming three-match T20I series against Bangladesh, with Salman Ali Agha continuing as captain.

With the 2026 T20 World Cup in mind, selectors have emphasised performance and fresh talent over seniority, citing recent showings in the PSL as a guiding metric.

According to Dawn, vice‑captain Shadab Khan and fast bowler Haris Rauf were also ruled out due to ongoing fitness issues—Shadab recovering from surgery and Rauf sidelined by a hamstring injury.

Uncapped quicks Ahmed Daniyal and Salman Mirza earned recalls following strong PSL performances, while spinners like Mohammad Nawaz and Sufyan Muqeem were included to bolster the bowling options.

Critics argue that leaving out proven performers like Babar, Rizwan, and Shaheen could destabilise Pakistan’s batting and bowling core, with pundits calling for a balance between nurturing young talent and retaining match-winning experience.

Supporters of the move suggest this presents an opportunity to build a strong bench for the World Cup, Pakistan hopes to cultivate a pool of 20–25 players ready to step up when needed.

What’s next

  • Pakistan will convene in Karachi on July 10 before departing to Dhaka, where the first T20I is set for July 20 at Sher‑e‑Bangla National Stadium.
     
  • These matches will serve as an early test for new coach Mike Hesson, who has stressed the need for decision-making rooted in current domestic form and the team’s long-term vision .
     
  • As veteran absences persist, eyes will be on the emerging players and whether this strategy can yield wins—and World Cup readiness—before the February–March 2026 tournament.
     

Pakistan’s bold squad overhaul reflects a clear strategy: back recent form, embrace youth, and forge a new era ahead of the T20 World Cup. Whether this pays off will become clear starting July 20, when Pakistan take the field in Dhaka.


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