Pakistan Cricket Squad Shake-Up for Asia Cup Excludes Babar and Rizwan

Pakistan has unveiled its 17-member cricket squad for the Asia Cup, notably excluding seasoned players Babar Azam and Mohammed Rizwan. Chief Selector Aaqib Javed expressed confidence in the team's ability to defeat India. The squad will first compete in a tri-series in the UAE against Afghanistan and the hosts.

In a surprising move, Pakistan's cricket selectors have announced a 17-member squad for the upcoming Asia Cup, leaving out key players Babar Azam and Mohammed Rizwan. The absence of these seasoned batters marks a bold strategy shift for the team.

Babar Azam and Mohammed Rizwan haven't engaged in the shortest format since December 2024, a factor hinted at by coach Mike Hesson for their omission. The squad, led by Salman Ali Agha, will first face Afghanistan and the UAE in a tri-series starting August 29.

Aqib Javed, Pakistan's chief selector, remains optimistic about the team's potential, notably against rivals India. Javed stated the new squad has both the skill and readiness to prove themselves on the world stage. Meanwhile, Babar Azam is encouraged to hone his skills further, particularly in facing spin.