Cricket fans are buzzing after Babar Azam, Pakistan’s star batter and former captain, revealed his World T20 XI with some stunning omissions. In a move that has sparked widespread debate, Babar left out Indian cricket icons Virat Kohli and Jasprit Bumrah-two players many consider automatic choices for any T20 dream team. Instead, he opted for a balanced lineup featuring only two Indians: Rohit Sharma and Suryakumar Yadav.
Babar Azam’s World T20 XI: The Full Lineup
Babar unveiled his T20 World XI during a podcast appearance, with the unique twist that he could pick no more than two players from any one country. Here’s the side he selected:
Rohit Sharma (India)
Mohammad Rizwan (Pakistan)
Fakhar Zaman (Pakistan)
Suryakumar Yadav (India)
Jos Buttler (England)
David Miller (South Africa)
Marco Jansen (South Africa)
Rashid Khan (Afghanistan)
Pat Cummins (Australia)
Mitchell Starc (Australia)
Mark Wood (England)
This lineup blends explosive batting, versatile all-rounders, and a world-class pace attack, but the absence of Kohli and Bumrah has raised eyebrows across the cricketing world.
The Big Omissions: Why No Kohli or Bumrah?
Virat Kohli, the third-highest run-scorer in T20I history with 4,188 runs, and Jasprit Bumrah, widely regarded as one of the best T20 bowlers and the Player of the Tournament at the 2024 T20 World Cup, are glaring omissions. Kohli’s consistency and Bumrah’s death bowling have been central to India’s recent T20 successes.
Possible Reasons Behind Babar’s Choices
Selection Rule: Babar was limited to two players per country, forcing tough decisions.
Current Form & Impact: Rohit Sharma, who led India to the 2024 T20 World Cup title and is the format’s all-time leading run-scorer, and Suryakumar Yadav, India’s innovative T20I captain, got the nod for their recent form and impact.
Team Balance: Babar prioritized a mix of aggressive openers, middle-order power, and a potent bowling attack.
Who Made the Cut from India and Why?
Rohit Sharma: The most capped and highest run-getter in T20Is, Rohit’s leadership and explosive starts made him a natural pick.
Suryakumar Yadav: Known for his 360-degree batting, Surya’s consistency and versatility at No. 4 have made him a T20 specialist.
Reactions: Fans and Experts Weigh In
Babar’s selections have led to lively discussions among fans and pundits. Many were surprised to see Kohli and Bumrah left out, especially after their standout performances in recent ICC tournaments. Yet, others appreciated the fresh perspective and the logic behind Babar’s choices given the selection constraints.
Social Media Buzz
Some fans called the omissions “shocking,” while others praised Babar for thinking outside the box.
Cricket experts noted that the two-per-country rule inevitably meant some legends would miss out.
FAQs: Babar Azam’s World T20 XI
1. Why did Babar Azam leave out Virat Kohli and Jasprit Bumrah?
Babar was restricted to picking only two players from each country. He chose Rohit Sharma and Suryakumar Yadav from India, prioritizing recent form and team balance.
2. Who are the Indian players in Babar Azam’s World T20 XI?
Rohit Sharma and Suryakumar Yadav are the two Indians included in Babar’s XI.
3. What is unique about Babar Azam’s World T20 XI selection?
The XI features players from six different countries, with a maximum of two per nation, creating a diverse and balanced lineup.
4. How did fans react to Kohli and Bumrah’s omission?
The decision sparked debate, with many fans and experts surprised but some understanding the constraints and logic behind the picks.
5. Who are the bowlers in Babar’s World T20 XI?
The bowling attack includes Rashid Khan, Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, Marco Jansen, and Mark Wood-offering pace, swing, and spin variety.
Conclusion
Babar Azam’s World T20 XI is as bold as it is balanced, blending power hitters, finishers, and a fierce bowling unit. While the absence of Virat Kohli and Jasprit Bumrah is sure to keep debates raging, Babar’s picks reflect both the realities of selection limits and his vision for a dynamic T20 side. As cricket fans dissect every choice, one thing is clear: the conversation around the world’s best T20 XI is far from over.