📍 Pakistan vs Bangladesh T20I Series: Concerns Over Babar Azam’s Absence
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has announced a 16-member squad for the upcoming three-match T20I series against Bangladesh, notably excluding star players Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, and Shaheen Shah Afridi.
The matches are scheduled to be played at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium from May 28 to June 1, 2025.
Former Pakistani cricketer Basit Ali has expressed concern over Babar Azam’s exclusion, saying:
“No Babar, no crowd. What will happen in Lahore without him against Bangladesh?”
He believes that Babar’s absence will significantly reduce fan turnout — especially in his hometown, Lahore.
📉 Babar Azam’s Recent Form and Omission from the T20I Squad
Babar Azam last played a T20I match in December 2024. Since then, he has been absent from the shortest format due to concerns over his recent form and strike rate.
Former players like Sohail Tanvir and Shoaib Malik have also criticized Babar’s place in the T20I setup, suggesting he is not suited for modern, fast-paced T20 cricket.
🏟️ Impact on Attendance at Gaddafi Stadium
Babar Azam is widely regarded as the biggest brand in Pakistan cricket. His absence from the squad could lead to a significant drop in ticket sales and crowd attendance during the Bangladesh series.
Matches held at Gaddafi Stadium are known for drawing massive crowds, especially when Babar is playing — making this exclusion all the more noticeable.
📝 Pakistan Squad for Bangladesh T20I Series
-
Captain: Agha Salman
-
Vice Captain: Shadab Khan
-
Other Players: Abrar Ahmed, Faheem Ashraf, Fakhar Zaman, Haris Rauf, Hasan Ali, Hasan Nawaz, Hussain Talat, Mohammad Irfan Khan, Khushdil Shah, Mohammad Haris (wicketkeeper), Mohammad Wasim Jr., Naseem Shah, Sahibzada Farhan (wicketkeeper), Saim Ayub
