Babar Azam T20 comeback. Babar Azam picked as Fakhar Zaman’s replacement for the upcoming three-match T20 International series against South Africa, a decision confirmed by Pakistan’s white-ball head coach Mike Hesson. This move marks a significant turnaround for the former skipper, who has been absent from Pakistan’s T20I squad for the past five assignments. Hesson attributed this opportunity to fellow batter Fakhar Zaman’s decision to temporarily step away from the format to focus on his one-day cricket technique.
Since Hesson assumed his role in June, Babar Azam had not featured in any of Pakistan’s T20Is, missing series against Bangladesh, the West Indies, a tri-nation tournament, and the Asia Cup. The coach had previously cited Babar’s lower strike-rate as a reason for his exclusion. However, the recent selection suggests a reassessment of strategies as the national side prepares for key fixtures.
Babar Azam’s Role and Renewed Expectations
Head coach Mike Hesson openly endorsed Babar Azam’s selection, stating, “I certainly endorse his selection. We’ve sent him (Fakhar) back to first-class cricket after a conversation with him. He wanted to focus on improving his technique for one-day cricket, so we gave him a bit of a break from T20s. That’s created an opportunity for another top-order player.” Hesson clarified that Babar would bat at number three, moving away from his preferred opening position. This tactical shift is aimed at providing flexibility, and Hesson expressed confidence in Babar’s ability to perform well in this new role, seeing him as a crucial part of Pakistan’s plans for the T20 World Cup scheduled for February-March next year in India and Sri Lanka. “It’s a great chance to have Babar back,” he added.
The announcement coincided with some other notable changes within the squad. Wicket-keeper batter Mohammad Haris, despite receiving consistent backing from the team management during Hesson’s tenure, has been axed. Haris, 24, showcased his potential with a century against Bangladesh in June but subsequently struggled for form amid frequent changes in his batting position. Hesson emphasized Haris’s need to refine his decision-making with the bat, noting his average of around 17 in both domestic and international T20s.
Haris’s spot has been filled by Usman Khan, who previously gave up a career in the United Arab Emirates to play for Pakistan. Hesson highlighted Usman’s proficiency against spin, making him a suitable middle-order wicket-keeper, especially considering the conditions expected at the T20 World Cup. He further elaborated, “We see our wicket-keeper batting more through the middle rather than at the top, especially with spin being such a big factor in Sri Lanka during the World Cup. That’s why Usman has been given this opportunity.” This strategic selection reflects a clear focus on adapting to potential World Cup playing conditions, according to SindhNews.com.
In conclusion, the decision to bring Babar Azam back into the T20I squad, coupled with the strategic inclusions and omissions, signals Pakistan’s ongoing efforts to fine-tune its team composition. These adjustments aim to enhance squad flexibility and address specific tactical requirements ahead of the significant T20 World Cup challenge.Babar Azam Returns to Pakistan’s T20I Squad
Summary: After a period out of favour, Babar Azam has been recalled to Pakistan’s Twenty20 International squad for the upcoming series against South Africa. White-ball head coach Mike Hesson confirmed the decision, stating Babar replaces Fakhar Zaman, who opted out to focus on his one-day cricket technique. The squad also sees the exclusion of Mohammad Haris and the inclusion of Usman Khan.
Babar Azam is slated for a significant return to Pakistan’s Twenty20 International squad, replacing fellow batter Fakhar Zaman for the three-match series against South Africa. This development, confirmed by white-ball head coach Mike Hesson, marks Babar’s first T20I appearance since Hesson took the helm in June, during which the team played against Bangladesh, West Indies, and participated in the Asia Cup.
Hesson, who previously cited the right-hander’s low strike-rate for his absence, clarified the reasoning behind this latest selection. Speaking to reporters on Sunday at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, he stated, “I certainly endorse