Star Pakistan batter Babar Azam has taken a significant step after being left out of the ODI squad for the upcoming series against Bangladesh. Under the leadership of Shaheen Afridi, Pakistan are scheduled to face the Tigers in a three-match contest beginning on March 11 at the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium in Dhaka.
Following their Super 8 exit at the T20 World Cup 2026, Pakistan are now preparing for the away assignment against Bangladesh. Led during the global event by Salman Ali Agha, the side failed to secure a semifinal berth and concluded their campaign with a consolation victory over Sri Lanka.
In the wake of that disappointing run, the PCB selection committee introduced several changes to the ODI squad for the Bangladesh tour. Among the most notable omissions was Babar Azam, while Saim Ayub was also excluded after struggling for form during the T20 World Cup.
Selection Call Raises Questions Over Babar’s ODI Future
Despite his stature as one of Pakistan’s leading batters in the shortest format, Babar endured a prolonged dip in form. His strike rate became a point of criticism, with difficulties in accelerating the scoring rate impacting the team’s T20I performances.
Consequently, the team management, led by Mike Hesson, altered his batting role during the tournament. At times, Babar was utilised as a floater, with aggressive hitters such as Shadab Khan promoted ahead of him to make the most of positive starts.
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The Lahore-born batter ended his T20 World Cup 2026 campaign with modest returns, scoring 91 runs in four matches at an average of 22.75 and a strike rate of 112.35.
With his exclusion from the ODI squad for the Bangladesh series, uncertainty has emerged regarding his prospects in the 50-over format ahead of the 2027 World Cup.
Break from Domestic Cricket After ODI Snub
Following the selectors’ decision, Babar has reportedly stepped back from competitive cricket, according to Geo News. The senior batter, who had been expected to feature in the National T20 Cup, will now miss the domestic tournament.
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The report further stated that the Pakistan team management advised Babar to take time away from matches and focus on refining his batting technique. He is currently working on improving aspects of his game with the aim of returning strongly to competitive action.
PSL Comeback Expected Later This Month
As per the Geo News report, Babar will not participate in the ongoing National T20 Cup. Instead, he will spend the period assessing areas that require improvement and training in the nets.
The 31-year-old is set to return during PSL 2026, where he will lead Peshawar Zalmi. Under his captaincy, Zalmi will open their campaign against the newly introduced Rawalpindi Pindiz at the Imran Khan Stadium in Peshawar on March 28.
Following that fixture, Peshawar Zalmi are scheduled to face Islamabad, Hyderabad, Karachi, Lahore, Multan and Quetta in the remainder of their league matches.
