Naqvi Affirms Selection Committee’s Role in Team Composition

LAHORE: Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi clarified on Saturday that he plays no part in the exclusion of experienced players Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan from the national squad for the upcoming ACC Men’s Asia Cup 2025. The tournament is scheduled to take place in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) from September 9-28.

Babar and Rizwan, consistent representatives for Pakistan in major tournaments since the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2021, which was also held in the UAE, have reportedly been sidelined in the T20 format since the away series against South Africa in December of the previous year.

The two players did not make the cut for the Asia Cup squad, as selectors are now prioritizing the development of younger players in preparation for the next T20 World Cup. This decision has sparked criticism from fans and has been a significant talking point among cricket analysts following the squad announcement.

During a media briefing at a private event after chairing the PCB’s 80th Board of Governors (BoG) meeting, Naqvi emphasized that team selections are based purely on merit and are the responsibility of the selection committee and advisory group. He denied any personal involvement in the selection process.

“I have absolutely no involvement in selecting or dropping any player. We have a selection committee and an advisory body; they collaborate and conduct extensive meetings to finalize the team,” Naqvi stated.

“I have complete confidence in their decisions. They are professionals, and I have instructed them to base their choices on merit.”

“We have refined and supported the available talent, and with God’s help, we aim to discover and nurture more young talent to increase competition.”

Pakistan Squad for Tri-Series and Asia Cup 2025:
  • Saim Ayub
  • Fakhar Zaman
  • Salman Ali Agha (C)
  • Abrar Ahmed
  • Faheem Ashraf
  • Haris Rauf
  • Hasan Ali
  • Hasan Nawaz
  • Hussain Talat
  • Khushdil Shah
  • Mohammad Haris (WK)
  • Mohammad Nawaz
  • Mohammad Wasim Jr.
  • Sahibzada Farhan
  • Salman Mirza
  • Shaheen Shah Afridi
  • Sufiyan Muqeem