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Babar Azam Set for T20I Comeback as Fakhar Zaman Faces Asia Cup Fitness Doubts
Pakistan Faces Selection Shake-Up Ahead of Asia Cup 2025
The Pakistan cricket team might undergo a crucial change before the 2025 Asia Cup, as star batter Fakhar Zaman is reportedly doubtful for the tournament due to fitness issues. In response, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is considering a major comeback — that of former captain Babar Azam to the T20I squad.
According to recent developments reported by Cricket Pakistan, Fakhar Zaman has been advised to undergo rehabilitation at the National Cricket Academy in Lahore, making his participation in the high-stakes tournament increasingly uncertain.
Babar Azam’s T20I Return on the Cards
A Possible Replacement for Fakhar Zaman
With Fakhar’s fitness status hanging in the balance, selectors are looking at Babar Azam as a potential replacement. Once a cornerstone of Pakistan’s T20I setup, Babar was recently excluded from the shortest format due to lackluster performances in the T20 World Cup 2024 and bilateral series against Australia and South Africa.
However, the scenario may shift drastically. Babar remains statistically Pakistan’s most successful T20I batter, with 4223 runs in 128 matches, including three centuries and 36 half-centuries, averaging just under 40. His experience, temperament, and consistency make him the leading candidate to fill in for Fakhar if the need arises.
🧠 Want to revisit Pakistan’s recent T20I series? Explore our in-depth review of Pakistan vs South Africa 2024 series.
Fakhar Zaman’s Fitness: A Timeline of Concern
Fakhar Zaman’s aggressive batting style and ability to turn games has made him a valuable asset in Pakistan’s T20I lineup. However, persistent fitness issues have plagued his recent performances. With the Asia Cup fast approaching, PCB insiders claim that Fakhar may not regain match fitness in time to make the squad.
He has already been shifted to NCA Lahore for focused rehabilitation, indicating the seriousness of his condition. The PCB medical panel is expected to make a final call in the coming weeks.
Selectors Watching Babar’s ODI Performance Closely
Babar Azam may not be guaranteed a place just yet. His selection for the Asia Cup T20Is hinges on his performance in the upcoming ODI series against the West Indies. Despite his ouster from the T20I squad, Babar continues to be an integral part of Pakistan’s ODI plans and will be under scrutiny during the three-match series.
A Crucial Test for Babar’s Form
If the right-hander showcases solid form in the ODIs, especially with the bat, selectors are likely to bring him back as a wildcard into the Asia Cup setup. However, memories of his dismal run during the previous T20 Asia Cup, where he managed just 68 runs across six innings at a mere average of 11.33, still loom large.
What’s Next for Pakistan’s Asia Cup Strategy?
The uncertainty around Fakhar Zaman has thrown a curveball into Pakistan’s Asia Cup strategy. With a shift in leadership, focus on young talents, and the balance between experience and flair at stake, the inclusion of Babar could be a stabilizing factor in the squad.
A healthy and in-form Babar brings structure to the top order, crucial for high-pressure T20 tournaments. But whether he returns will depend on both performance and intent — something the selectors will evaluate closely after the ODI series.
📖 For official updates and rehab protocols, visit Pakistan Cricket Board’s website
