Dubai
The Asia Cup 2025 has been dominated by India, who stormed into the final with six consecutive victories. Pakistan, meanwhile, endured a shaky campaign, losing twice to India but scraping through with four wins. The defeats have forced the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to reconsider its selection strategy, with reports suggesting that former captain Babar Azam is set to make his T20I return during the five-match home series against South Africa starting October 12.
Babar was earlier sidelined due to his relatively low strike rate and to create opportunities for emerging players like Mohammad Rizwan. However, Pakistan’s lack of batting stability, particularly against India, has highlighted the need for senior experience at the crease. The selection committee will decide whether Babar resumes his role as opener or slots into the middle order at No. 3 or No. 4.
If recalled, Babar is likely to replace one of three underperformers. Saim Ayub, once seen as a promising top-order talent, endured a nightmare Asia Cup, scoring just 23 runs in six innings at an average of 3.83, including four ducks. Salman Ali Agha, while steady as captain, has failed to deliver impactful innings, averaging 24 with a strike rate of 110 across 29 T20Is. Another underperforming batter could also be at risk. Babar’s record speaks volumes: 4,223 runs in 128 T20Is, three centuries, 36 fifties, and the distinction of being the fastest player to 2,500 T20I runs. His return could provide Pakistan with the firepower it sorely missed in the Asia Cup.
