Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan’s future in the Pakistan cricket team has quickly become a topic of debate in recent months, and now Aaqib Javed has outlined the only pathway that could see the duo return to the T20 international stage.
Talking to reporters at PCB’s skills development camp, Director of High Performance Aaqib Javed confirmed that both Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan have been given detailed feedback on what they need to improve as part of an ongoing push to modernize Pakistan’s approach across formats.
“Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan have also been informed about where improvement is needed,” Aaqib Javed said. “Both are senior players, and we had honest discussions with them about how to enhance their game.”
Babar and Rizwan have often faced criticism over their measured approach despite the game progressing to a faster tempo in recent times. Their absence has been linked to their playing styles, and Aaqib Javed all but confirmed that the two will need to show significant improvement in order to get back into the T20 side for the upcoming tours of Bangladesh or the West Indies.
“We’ll need to score 200-plus runs,” Aaqib said. “Whether it’s a youngster or a senior player, we will go with the best available option for Pakistan. The conditions will be the same for all teams, so we have to prepare smartly and select accordingly.”
While head coach Mike Hesson has also not closed the door on the duo’s return in the future, Babar and Rizwan will likely be on the sidelines for the foreseeable future as PCB continues to trust the younger talent.
Once the heart of the batting lineup, the board hopes these candid discussions with Babar and Rizwan and targeted preparations will help the team sharpen its approach in a crucial period for Pakistan cricket.
