why babar azam and rizwan not playing

why babar azam and rizwan not playing

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Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan are not playing for Pakistan currently, including in the Asia Cup 2025, primarily due to concerns about their strike rates in T20 cricket. The Pakistan head coach Mike Hesson and chief selector Aqib Javed have stated that the duo were asked to work on improving their strike rates and overall game. The team management feels there are other players who are currently performing better in the shortest format, leading to Babar and Rizwan's exclusion from the squad. Despite their past performances and experience, their strike rate and ability to accelerate scoring in T20 matches have been points of criticism. The decision to drop them is based on merit, and they can earn their way back by performing well in domestic and other cricket competitions. Pakistan’s current team is led by newer players, and the management believes this younger set has the right mindset and potential for the future. As for Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan, the focus is on improving their strike rate to regain selection, but the current team management has no agenda other than honest assessment of performance. The decision has drawn debate, with some former cricketers like Wasim Akram supporting the move, stating the younger players need a chance since Babar and Rizwan were not consistent enough in recent times.

Regarding "Rizwan," since the user's question includes "Rizwan" but not specifically "Mohammad Rizwan," it is assumed to be the same cricketer Mohammad Rizwan due to context in cricket discussions. Babar Azam has also stepped down from T20I captaincy after the 2024 T20 World Cup, which aligned with doubts about his T20 future leading to the management's current approach.

Summarizing:

  • Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan were dropped due to slow strike rates and form in T20s.
  • Team management favors younger players currently performing better in this format.
  • They may return if they perform well domestically and improve their T20 game.
  • The decision is based on merit and honest assessment, not personal bias.
  • This situation has been publicly acknowledged by PCB officials, coaches, and former players.
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