KARACHI: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is considering recalling former captain Babar Azam to the T20 squad after Fakhar Zaman suffered a fitness setback.
Sources say Babar could return for the upcoming tri-series and Asia Cup 2025 if Fakhar fails to recover in time. The left-handed opener injured himself during the T20 series against the West Indies, ruling him out of both the T20 and ODI legs of the tour.
The PCB has ordered Fakhar to undergo rehab at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Lahore. While his Asia Cup participation remains uncertain, the board is closely tracking his recovery and preparing backup options.
Babar’s Comeback Hinges on ODI Performance
Babar, who arrived in Florida on Friday with Mohammad Rizwan, Abdullah Shafique, and Naseem Shah, is set to play the three-match ODI series against West Indies (August 8-12). This marks his first international appearance since April, when he last played against New Zealand.
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Fakhar Zaman ruled out of West Indies ODI series due to injury
If he delivers strong performances in the ODIs, selectors may reinstate him in the T20 squad. Recently, Babar met with PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi during the second T20 against West Indies, sparking speculation about his return.
Pakistan’s Strong T20 Start
Pakistan began the T20I series with a 14-run win over West Indies on Thursday. However, with Fakhar injured, the team is weighing options before finalizing the Asia Cup squad, expected in mid-August.
Asia Cup 2025: Key Details
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Starts: September 9 (Afghanistan vs. Hong Kong)
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Groups:
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Group A: Pakistan, India, UAE, Oman
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Group B: Bangladesh, Afghanistan, Sri Lanka, Hong Kong
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Pakistan’s Matches:
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Sept 12: vs Oman
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Sept 14: vs India (high-voltage clash)
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Sept 17: vs UAE
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ODI Series Schedule (West Indies Tour)
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Aug 8: 1st ODI, Brian Lara Cricket Academy
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Aug 10: 2nd ODI, Brian Lara Cricket Academy
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Aug 12: 3rd ODI, Brian Lara Cricket Academy
With Fakhar’s fitness in doubt, all eyes are on Babar Azam’s form in the ODIs—potentially deciding his T20 comeback ahead of crucial tournaments.
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