Pakistan cricket has dropped a bombshell ahead of the Asia Cup & Tri-Series 2025, leaving out star batters Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan despite being Pakistan's all-time T20I top scorers. Their omission follows poor outings in the World Cup 2023, T20 World Cup 2024, and the Champions Trophy 2025, as well as a historic series loss to the West Indies after 34 years. A bold call that's divided fans worldwide
In a move that has shocked fans worldwide, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has announced its squad for the upcoming Asia Cup 2025 and Tri-Series, and two of the biggest names — Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan — have been left out. Their exclusion has sparked widespread debate, with many questioning the reasons behind dropping Pakistan's most experienced batting duo.
For years, Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan were seen as the backbone of Pakistan's batting line-up. However, their recent performances have been far from convincing. According to insiders, the selectors decided to move forward without them because of their continued failures in major ICC tournaments and recent series defeats:
These repeated failures have forced selectors to take a bold step, dropping the two stalwarts to give opportunities to younger players ahead of upcoming tournaments.
Despite their poor recent form, it's important to note that Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan are still Pakistan's most successful batters in T20I cricket:
Their unmatched consistency over the years makes their exclusion even more surprising, as both remain Pakistan's top run-getters in T20Is.
What This Means for Pakistan's Future
The decision sends a strong message that performance matters more than reputation. With new faces set to take center stage, Pakistan's batting will undergo a complete transformation.
However, the lack of experienced batters in big tournaments could prove risky. The Asia Cup 2025 and Tri-Series will test Pakistan's young guns like never before, especially against top cricketing nations.
Pakistan's Squad for Asia Cup & Tri-Series 2025
17-member squad For Asia Cup and Tri-Series 2025
Salman Ali Agha (C), Abrar, F Ashraf, F Zaman, Haris Rauf, Hasan Ali, Hasan Nawaz, Hussain Talat, K Shah, M Haris (WK), M Nawaz, M Waseem Jnr, Sahibzada Farhan, Saim Ayub, Salman Mirza, S Afridi and Sufyan Moqim
Final Thoughts
Leaving out Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan is undoubtedly one of the boldest moves in Pakistan cricket's recent history. After repeated failures in the World Cup 2023, the T20I World Cup 2024, the Champions Trophy 2025, and the West Indies series, the selectors have drawn a line and decided to rebuild for the future.
Yet, considering that they remain Pakistan's all-time highest run scorers in T20Is, this decision will remain one of the most debated topics in years to come.
Whether this gamble pays off or backfires will be revealed in the Asia Cup and Tri-Series 2025. One thing is sure — the decision has already become the most talked-about headline in world cricket.
Also Read: ACC Confirms Dubai and Abu Dhabi as Official Venues for Asia Cup
Share this post
Six-hitting has become a defining part of ODI cricket, and the all-time leaders in this category are true game-changers. Players like Rohit Sharma, Shahid Afridi, Chris Gayle, and MS Dhoni have thrilled fans with their power and consistency. Their ability to clear the boundary under pressure has shaped many memorable matches. This list highlights the greatest six-hitters who left a lasting impact on one-day cricket.
Discover the top six-hitters in Test cricket for India! From Virender Sehwag to Rishabh Pant, explore how these fearless batters have revolutionized the longest format of the game with their mighty sixes. Learn about the most explosive innings, and how players like Rohit Sharma and MS Dhoni have left their mark on Test cricket with unforgettable maximums.
India created history as Shafali Varma and Deepti Sharma powered the team to their maiden World Cup title in a thrilling final against Australia. Shafali, a replacement for injured Pratika Rawal, shone brightly to win Player of the Match. At the same time, Deepti's all-round brilliance — 22 wickets and 250 runs — earned her the Player of the Series honour—a golden moment for Indian women's cricket.
New Zealand captain Kane Williamson has officially announced his retirement from T20 internationals to focus on Tests and ODIs, ending a remarkable T20I career. In 93 matches, he scored 2,575 runs — the second-highest for New Zealand — and captained in 75 games, leading his team to the 2021 T20 World Cup Final. A calm leader, a true legend — Thank you, Kane Mama.
Power meets precision in T20I cricket's biggest six-hitters! From Rohit Sharma's record 227 sixes to Suryakumar Yadav's explosive 150, these power-packed performances have redefined modern cricket. Discover the fearless batters who've sent balls soaring out of stadiums and etched their names in history. Here's a thrilling look at the most sixes in T20I cricket history and the legends behind them.
ScoreWaves © 2025 Copyright. All Rights Reserved.
Views:
Download Our App
IOS
Google Play Store