Lahore, October 23, 2025: Former captain Babar Azam has been recalled to Pakistan’s T20 International squad for the first time in almost a year, marking his return as an all-format player ahead of a busy white-ball season that includes a home series against South Africa and a tri-nation series featuring Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) on Wednesday announced the 15-member squads for both formats. Salman Ali Agha will lead the T20I side, while Shaheen Shah Afridi takes over as ODI captain for the three-match series against South Africa next month.
Babar, who last featured in a T20I during the 2023 Asia Cup, was omitted from the shortest format earlier this year as the coaching staff sought changes to Pakistan’s approach. At the time, white-ball coach Mike Hesson had said Babar needed to “improve a few things” to reclaim his spot, with the Big Bash League (BBL) expected to serve as a platform to assess his form. However, his early return suggests renewed confidence from the selectors in his abilities.
Mohammad Rizwan, recently removed as ODI captain, retains his place in the 50-over squad, while wicketkeeper-batter Usman Khan and offspinner Usman Tariq have been drafted into the T20I side after strong performances in franchise leagues. Tariq was the second-highest wicket-taker in the Caribbean Premier League (CPL) this season, representing champions Trinbago Knight Riders.
Fast bowler Naseem Shah has also been named in both squads following an impressive CPL campaign with St Kitts and Nevis Patriots, while Hasan Ali and Hussain Talat have been left out of the white-ball sides.
Pakistan will play three T20Is and three ODIs against South Africa in November, followed by the tri-series from November 17 to 29.
Pakistan ODI squad
Shaheen Shah Afridi (captain), Abrar Ahmed, Babar Azam, Faheem Ashraf, Faisal Akram, Fakhar Zaman, Haris Rauf, Haseebullah, Hasan Nawaz, Hussain Talat, Mohammad Nawaz, Mohammad Rizwan (wk), Mohammad Wasim Jnr, Naseem Shah, Saim Ayub, Salman Ali Agha
Pakistan T20I squad
Salman Ali Agha (captain), Abdul Samad, Abrar Ahmed, Babar Azam, Faheem Ashraf, Hasan Nawaz, Mohammad Nawaz, Mohammad Wasim Jnr, Mohammad Salman Mirza, Naseem Shah, Sahibzada Farhan, Saim Ayub, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Usman Khan (wk), Usman Tariq
