Pakistan's chief selector, Aaqib Javed, has defended the inclusion of Babar Azam in the national squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup, despite concerns about the former captain's recent form. The announcement of the 15-member squad on Sunday, January 25, 2026, has already stirred debate, particularly with the omission of express pacer Haris Rauf. The T20 World Cup is set to commence on February 7, 2026, and will be jointly hosted by India and Sri Lanka.
Addressing the media in Lahore, alongside captain Salman Ali Agha and white-ball head coach Michael James Hesson, Javed emphasized the importance of Babar's experience and consistency. When questioned about Babar's inclusion despite "not meeting international standards" recently, Javed stated that Babar has been "the most consistent batsman" for Pakistan. He further elaborated that the decision wasn't about comparing Babar to other players, such as Mohammad Rizwan, but about selecting the player who best fits the team's composition and strengthens the squad. Javed stated that the team's coach and captain see Babar as someone who can play a vital role.
"You have to look at how the batting composition of your team shapes up," Javed explained. "Babar is seen by both the coach and the captain as someone who can play a vital role in the team. This doesn't mean that if one player is given a chance, another is denied one".
Babar's inclusion is considered a timely boost for Pakistan as they prepare for the conditions in India and Sri Lanka. Having recently become the highest run-scorer in men's T20 internationals, Babar brings a wealth of experience, leadership, and a proven big-match temperament. His presence allows Pakistan to anchor innings, providing stability while enabling younger, more aggressive batsmen to play with freedom around him. Alongside Babar, the batting unit includes Fakhar Zaman, Saim Ayub, Sahibzada Farhan, and Usman Khan, offering a blend of power and finesse. Selectors have prioritized flexibility to adapt to both high-scoring and spin-friendly venues expected in the tournament.
While Babar's inclusion provides stability, the exclusion of Haris Rauf has raised eyebrows. Rauf, who has 133 wickets in 94 T20I matches, was a cornerstone of Pakistan's T20 bowling attack. Javed explained that Rauf was omitted keeping the conditions in Sri Lanka in mind while selecting the squad. Sources suggest that Rauf's omission may be linked to recent fitness concerns and a dip in form during domestic competitions. The team management seems to be prioritizing control, swing, and experience over outright pace, entrusting Shaheen Shah Afridi and Naseem Shah to lead the pace attack. Mohammad Salman Mirza and Usman Tariq will support them, providing variety and depth.
Pakistan's squad also boasts all-round depth with Faheem Ashraf, Shadab Khan and others, offering tactical freedom and balance. Salman Ali Agha acknowledged that Pakistan might have an advantage due to familiarity with the conditions, similar to India during the previous ICC Champions Trophy. However, he emphasized that winning depends on playing good cricket.
The team's participation is subject to government approval amid ongoing regional tensions. Pakistan is scheduled to face Australia in a three-match T20I series in Lahore starting January 29, as part of their preparation for the World Cup. The squad also includes Abrar Ahmed, Fakhar Zaman, Mohammad Nawaz, Naseem Shah, Saim Ayub, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Shadab Khan and Usman Khan.
