Rawalpindi, October 26, 2025: Pakistan men’s white-ball head coach Mike Hesson has confirmed that Babar Azam will bat at number three in the upcoming three-match home T20I series against South Africa, beginning Tuesday in Rawalpindi.
Babar, Pakistan’s former captain and the second-highest run-scorer in T20I history, returns to the shortest format after being left out of the national squad since the away series against South Africa last December. His exclusion extended through the ACC Men’s T20 Asia Cup 2025, as selectors focused on nurturing younger players ahead of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026.
Speaking to reporters during a training session at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, Hesson said Babar’s inclusion was made possible after Fakhar Zaman was given a break from T20Is to refine his technique through domestic cricket.
“I certainly endorse Babar’s selection. Fakhar has gone back to first-class cricket to work on his technique and return for ODIs,” Hesson explained. “That opened an opportunity at the top, and bringing Babar back makes perfect sense. He’s likely to bat at three, a role I’m confident he’ll excel in.”
The coach added that Babar’s comeback not only strengthens Pakistan’s top order but also provides valuable options as the team builds toward next year’s global tournament.
The Pakistan–South Africa T20I series will run from October 28 to November 1, with the first match in Rawalpindi, followed by two games at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium.
