Former Pakistan captain Wasim Akram backed star batter Babar Azam for T20Is on Tuesday despite his omission from the ACC Men’s T20 Asia Cup 2025 roster. Babar, the second-highest T20I run-scorer, has been out of favor since the December three-match away series against South Africa.
He did not make the Pakistan Asia Cup roster as the former champions focus on developing young players for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup.
Akram, part of the continental tournament’s star-studded commentary panel, argued for Babar’s inclusion in the national T20I team, saying his skills would help chase a 150-160 target on difficult conditions.
“Yes, I recently said I want Babar in T20. Just think about him because against stronger sides, chasing 150 or 160 on a pitch like this or any somewhat shaky wicket is difficult, Akram told an Indian broadcaster.
“You must adjust your strategy. Perhaps that may help, but this team is performing well. They’ve given Babar and Rizwan enough opening time for 4–5 years. They did well, but not consistently, therefore the new boys, he said.
The great pacer lauded the youthful Pakistani team, including T20I skipper Salman Ali Agha, for their bravery, saying they can win ‘top’ teams consistently.
“Babar and Rizwan are absent. I guess the aim was to move on to these kids. Though inconsistent, they’ve done well and have the appropriate approach. Losing doesn’t bother them. Wasim Akram said dread of losing makes you collapse under pressure.
“These guys may lose, but Salman Agha is a good captain. Leading from the front. He gives up his seat at 4-5, depending on the situation. Try not to overexperiment with this team. He determined that they regularly beat top teams.
