Lahore, March 4, 2025: Pakistan’s interim head coach, Aqib Javed, has defended the decision to exclude Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan from the T20I squad for the New Zealand tour, citing the need for a strategic shift in the team’s approach.
Addressing the media after the squad announcement, Javed also discussed the potential absence of Shaheen Afridi from both the ODI and T20I formats.
“This is not a permanent decision,” Aqib clarified. “We feel the need to introduce a younger group of players and change our style of play. Many teams have revamped their T20I squads by 80-90%, and we are moving in a similar direction. However, I understand that some experienced players will still be needed.”
Javed highlighted that once Saim Ayub and Fakhar Zaman return from injury, the squad will become even stronger.
“The idea is to maintain a core group of 24-25 players who stay within the system leading up to the Asia Cup and World Cup. This ensures that they develop a set mindset and approach these tournaments with confidence,” he said.
Shaheen Afridi, who struggled in the Champions Trophy, was also left out of the ODI squad. Javed addressed this, saying that team requirements dictate player selection.
“In ODI cricket, we assess players based on how effectively they fulfill the team’s demands. If a player isn’t meeting those expectations, it becomes a concern,” he explained.
However, he backed Shaheen and Haris Rauf as quality bowlers in the shorter format.
“Shaheen is still a top T20 bowler and can deliver strong performances. His exclusion from ODIs does not mean he will play only T20s forever. As selectors, we have to make the right decisions at the right time.”
Javed also addressed the controversial omission of leg-spinner Usama Mir, despite his strong performances in the Pakistan Super League (PSL) and domestic circuit.
Critics compared Mir’s exclusion to the selection of Azam Khan (based on his CPL performances) and Khushdil Shah (picked after excelling in the Bangladesh Premier League).
Explaining the decision, Javed said, “Team composition is key. In ODIs, teams typically go with three fast bowlers and one spinner, except for India, who play in spin-friendly conditions. Similarly, T20 teams need all-rounders.”
“We had discussions with him about his fitness. When making a comeback, a player needs to leave no room for doubt. We selected Sufiyan Muqeem in the T20 squad because he offers a left-arm wrist-spin option, providing a different angle. Alongside him, we have Abrar Ahmed, a mystery spinner who has been performing exceptionally well.”
He emphasized the need for versatile players, stating, “A wrist-spinner in the squad should also be able to contribute with the bat in the top seven, ensuring better team balance.”
