Babar Azam’s Asia Cup Inclusion Hinges on ODI Performance Against West Indies

Speculation is growing that former Pakistan captain Babar Azam may rejoin the national squad for the upcoming tri-series and Asia Cup 2025. This consideration arises amidst concerns about Fakhar Zaman’s fitness, according to sources.

Fakhar Zaman sustained an injury during the T20I series against the West Indies, which has sidelined him for both the T20I and ODI series against the same opponent.

Following his injury, the PCB has instructed Fakhar to promptly begin rehabilitation at the National Cricket Academy in Lahore.

Fakhar’s participation in the Asia Cup remains uncertain. Insiders reveal that while the board is carefully monitoring his recovery, they are also developing alternative strategies.

Sources indicate that Babar Azam is a leading candidate to replace Fakhar should he fail to fully recover in time.

However, Babar’s potential return to the Pakistan team for the Asia Cup is dependent on his performance in the ODI series against the West Indies.

A strong showing in the ODI series could significantly boost his chances of being selected for the national team.

Babar recently had a meeting with PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi, alongside Mohammad Rizwan and Naseem Shah, during the second T20I against the West Indies.

The final squad selection for the Asia Cup is anticipated to be revealed in the second week of August.

The Asia Cup 2025 will commence on September 9 with a Group B match featuring Afghanistan and Hong Kong.

A total of eight teams, divided into two groups, will compete for the title. Pakistan and India are in Group A with UAE and Oman, while Group B includes Bangladesh, Afghanistan, Sri Lanka, and Hong Kong.

Pakistan’s first match will be against Oman on September 12, followed by a high-profile game against India on September 14. Their final group stage match is against the UAE on September 17.

Complete schedule of ACC Men’s Asia Cup 2025
Super Four Stage:

September 28: Final