New Delhi, March 5: The fallout from a disappointing T20 World Cup has led to significant changes in Pakistan’s cricket lineup. The national team for the upcoming ODI series against Bangladesh has been announced, and notably, Babar Azam’s name is missing. Alongside him, explosive opener Fakhar Zaman has also been excluded from the squad.
Babar’s performance in the 2026 T20 World Cup fell short of expectations, as he managed only 91 runs across four matches. Following the team’s early exit from the tournament, several former cricketers criticized him and suggested he take a break from white-ball cricket. However, his ODI performance in 2025 was commendable, where he scored 544 runs at a strike rate of 77.16 in 17 matches, including a century against Sri Lanka in the previous ODI series. Despite this, the decision to omit him from the ODI team is surprising.
Young batsman Saim Ayub and fast bowler Naseem Shah will also miss this series. The selectors have indicated a desire to experiment with new combinations in the limited-overs setup.
Shaheen Shah Afridi will lead the team as captain. Despite the team’s poor showing in the World Cup, management has expressed confidence in his leadership.
Sahibzada Farhan has been given an opportunity after an impressive performance in the recent T20 World Cup, where he scored two centuries. Wicketkeeper-batsman Mohammad Rizwan also makes a return to the squad.
The 15-member team includes six uncapped players, signaling the selectors’ focus on future prospects.
The ODI series against Bangladesh is set to begin on March 11, with all three matches scheduled to take place in Dhaka on March 11, 13, and 15.
Pakistan’s ODI squad against Bangladesh: Shaheen Shah Afridi (Captain), Abdul Samad, Abrar Ahmed, Faheem Ashraf, Faisal Akram, Haris Rauf, Hussain Talat, Maz Sadakat, Mohammad Rizwan (Wicketkeeper), Mohammad Wasim Junior, Muhammad Ghazi Gori (Wicketkeeper), Saad Masood, Sahibzada Farhan, Salman Ali Agha, and Shamil Hussain.
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