Babar Azam & Naseem Shah Skip National T20 Cup Amid Busy Schedule
Pakistan’s Babar Azam and Naseem Shah have withdrawn from the National T20 Cup, opting out of the domestic tournament amid a hectic schedule. Initially expected to participate, both players have reportedly reversed their decision, shifting their focus to upcoming international fixtures.
The National T20 Cup was seen as a crucial opportunity for the duo to regain their spots in Pakistan’s T20I squad after being dropped for the recent New Zealand series. However, their withdrawal suggests a strategic move to focus on Pakistan’s upcoming ODI series against New Zealand and the Pakistan Super League (PSL), which begins next month.
Babar & Naseem Under Scrutiny
- Babar Azam, despite being one of Pakistan’s top T20I scorers last year, was omitted from the New Zealand series due to concerns over his strike rate.
- Naseem Shah, returning from injury, was also left out of the T20I squad as selectors took a cautious approach to his comeback.
- Both players faced increased scrutiny after Pakistan’s disappointing Champions Trophy campaign, where their performances were below expectations.
Mohammad Rizwan Also Absent from National T20 Cup
In another significant development, Mohammad Rizwan, who was also dropped from the T20I squad and replaced as vice-captain by Agha Salman, will not feature in the National T20 Cup.
Initially expected to participate, Rizwan’s name was missing from the final list, ruling out a chance for him, Babar, and Naseem to gain valuable match practice ahead of the PSL and international fixtures.
Looking Ahead: New Zealand Series & PSL
Despite their absence from the domestic tournament, Babar, Naseem, and Rizwan remain part of Pakistan’s ODI squad for the New Zealand series, offering them a chance to reaffirm their place in the national setup.
With the Pakistan Super League around the corner, all three players will aim to prove their form and fitness before Pakistan’s next major white-ball assignments.
