Pakistan have announced their 16-member squad for the upcoming three-match T20I series against Bangladesh, and the selection has raised eyebrows across the cricketing world. Notably, star players Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, and Shaheen Afridi have been left out, signaling a bold new direction for the team under fresh leadership and a new coaching regime.
Major Absentees: Babar, Rizwan, and Shaheen Left Out
The exclusion of former captain Babar Azam, veteran wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan, and pace spearhead Shaheen Afridi is the headline news. These three have been the backbone of Pakistan’s white-ball side in recent years, but the selectors have opted for a squad based primarily on performances in the ongoing Pakistan Super League (PSL).
Other notable absentees include Abbas Afridi and Usman Khan, further underlining the selectors’ intent to reward current form over reputation.
Who Makes the Cut? Fresh Faces and PSL Standouts
Leadership and Experience
- Salman Ali Agha continues as captain, with all-rounder Shadab Khan as his deputy.
- Regular white-ball performers Fakhar Zaman, Haris Rauf, and Naseem Shah retain their places, providing experience and firepower.
Exciting Returns and New Opportunities
- Saim Ayub returns after recovering from a fractured ankle, bringing flair to the top order.
- Sahibzada Farhan is back in the T20I setup for the first time since 2018, rewarded for topping the PSL run charts with 394 runs at a strike rate of 154.50.
- Hassan Nawaz and Muhammad Irfan Khan are among the emerging talents given a chance to shine.
Pakistan squad for Bangladesh series 2025:
Salman Ali Agha (C), Shadab Khan (VC), Abrar Ahmed, Faheem Ashraf, Fakhar Zaman, Haris Rauf, Hasan Ali, Hassan Nawaz, Hussain Talat, Khushdil Shah, Mohammad Haris (WK), Mohammad Wasim Jnr, Muhammad Irfan Khan, Naseem Shah, Sahibzada Farhan (WK), Saim Ayub
The Selection Rationale: PSL Performance and a New Era
Pakistan’s selection committee has made it clear that recent PSL performances were the main criteria for selection. This approach aims to inject fresh energy into the squad and reward players in top form, rather than relying solely on established stars.
This series will also mark the first assignment for newly appointed head coach Mike Hesson, who is expected to bring a fresh perspective to the team’s tactics and preparation.
Series Details: What’s Next for Pakistan and Bangladesh?
All three T20Is will be played at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium, with the schedule set to be announced soon. The series was originally planned as a five-match affair but has been trimmed to three games due to logistical and security considerations.
Bangladesh’s tour, which had faced uncertainty due to cross-border tensions and PSL scheduling, is now confirmed after successful talks between the boards.
FAQs: Pakistan Squad for Bangladesh T20I Series
Q1: Why were Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, and Shaheen Afridi left out?
The selectors prioritized players in top form during the ongoing PSL, aiming to reward performance and test emerging talent.
Q2: Who is leading Pakistan in the Bangladesh T20I series?
Salman Ali Agha will captain the team, with Shadab Khan as vice-captain.
Q3: Which new or returning players should fans watch out for?
Saim Ayub returns after injury, and Sahibzada Farhan is back after a stellar PSL season. Youngsters like Hassan Nawaz and Muhammad Irfan Khan are also included.
Q4: When and where will the series be played?
All three matches will be held at Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore. The exact schedule will be announced soon.
Q5: Is this the first series under Pakistan’s new coach?
Yes, this will be Mike Hesson’s first assignment as head coach of Pakistan.
Conclusion
Pakistan’s squad announcement for the Bangladesh T20I series marks a significant shift, with big names like Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, and Shaheen Afridi missing out in favor of in-form and emerging players. This bold approach, driven by PSL performances and a new coaching setup, signals a new era for Pakistan cricket. As fans gear up for the action in Lahore, all eyes will be on the fresh faces and the team’s quest to build a dynamic, winning combination.