Pakistani cricket is facing a fierce choice debate as they prepare for the ICC T20 World Cup 2026 to be held in India and Sri Lanka next year. Pakistan’s Cricket Board (PCB) is considering reminiscing about Babaru Azam to strengthen the T20I team in showpiece events.
Currently, Salman Aliaga’s position as Pakistan’s T20I captain and batter is unsafe following the recent decline in performance at the Asian Cup 2025.
Pakistan is a selection drama preparing for the ICC T20 World Cup 2026
Despite the batting struggle, Salman Ali Aga continued to receive support from Pakistani selectors and head coach Mike Hesson, but concerns have risen over the inconsistent performance among Pakistan Cricket Committee (PCB) members.
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As reported by Pakistani journalists Saleem Khaliq, Mike Hesson and Selectors, they are determined to continue Salman as T20I captain, but some PCB officials are questioning their ability to lead the team’s batting lineup as they carve out plans for the ICC T20 World Cup 2026.
PCB considers recall of Babar Azam in T20I am in the poor form of Salman Ali Aga
The journalist also revealed that the PCB is considering recalling Babaru Azam aside for the next three-match T20I series against South Africa at home. However, team managers have strongly objected to Babar’s return to the T20IS, citing concerns about the team’s balance and strategy.
Hesson had already made clear that if the former Pakistani captain wanted to make a comeback for the T20I, he would need to improve his strike rate and performance against spin bowling.
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Babar Azam has been out of the T20IS since late 2024 following inconsistent performance and low strike rates, but PCB feels that right-handed batters can prepare for the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup 2026.
PCB wants Babar Azam’s return, but Pakistani team management believes the current setup, with Salman leading the side, is to continue, and this has split within the board. Now it is still unclear whether Babar Azam has made a comeback for the upcoming series with South Africa.
Pakistan trims team ahead of South Africa’s Test Series
Previously, Pakistan made surprising changes to its team for its next two-match Test series against South Africa. They dropped fast bowler Aamir Jamal and spinner Faisal Akram. These moves will trim the team to the original 18-16 members.
The much-anticipated test series begins with the first test at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore from October 12th to 16th, followed by the second test at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium from October 20th to 24th.
After the Test Series, both teams will play three T20Is and three ODIs from October 28th to November 8th.