PCB Eyes This Star Cricketer for Asia Cup Squad Boost

Former captain Babar Azam may return to Pakistan’s national squad for the upcoming tri-nation series and Asia Cup 2025, as doubts continue to grow over Fakhar Zaman’s injury status.

Sources within the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) have said that Babar is being considered as a potential replacement in case Fakhar fails to recover in time. Fakhar suffered a hamstring injury during the T20I series against the West Indies and has since been ruled out of the ongoing white-ball matches.

The left-handed opener has been directed to report to the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Lahore, where he will begin rehabilitation. Officials are said to be monitoring his recovery closely. However, there is growing concern that he may not regain full fitness before the Asia Cup.

As a result, the PCB has started looking at backup options. According to insiders, Babar Azam is viewed as the most likely candidate to fill the gap, provided he performs well in the upcoming ODI matches against the West Indies.

His return could mark a significant development for Pakistan, especially ahead of the high-pressure Asia Cup matches. Babar was recently seen in discussion with PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi during the second T20I in Florida, alongside Mohammad Rizwan and Naseem Shah.

The final squad announcement is expected in the second week of August.

Asia Cup 2025 will start on 9 September, with Afghanistan facing Hong Kong. Pakistan is placed in Group A alongside India, Oman, and the UAE. Their opening match is scheduled for 12 September against Oman, followed by a highly anticipated clash with India on 14 September.