Babar Azam and Naseem Shah have withdrawn from the National T20 Cup. They decided to skip the tournament due to a busy schedule. Both players initially planned to participate. However, they later changed their decision, shifting their focus to upcoming international matches.
The National T20 Cup provided a chance for Babar and Naseem to reclaim their spots in Pakistan’s T20I squad. They were dropped for the New Zealand series. Reports suggest they opted out due to Pakistan’s ODI series against New Zealand and the Pakistan Super League (PSL). That tournament starts next month.
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Babar performed well in T20Is last year. However, critics questioned his strike rate, which contributed to his omission from the squad. Naseem, recovering from injury, did not make the New Zealand T20I squad either. His absence raised concerns about his match fitness.
Both players faced scrutiny after Pakistan’s poor Champions Trophy campaign. Their performances in that tournament did not meet expectations. Mohammad Rizwan also lost his T20I spot. He was replaced as vice-captain by Agha Salman ahead of the New Zealand series.
Reports initially suggested Rizwan might play in the National T20 Cup. However, his name did not appear in the final squad list. This exclusion means Babar, Naseem, and Rizwan lost an opportunity for domestic match practice. They could have used it for preparation.
Despite skipping the tournament, all three will play in Pakistan’s ODI squad. They will compete in the upcoming New Zealand series. This series gives them a chance to reaffirm their positions in Pakistan’s team. They aim to perform well before major white-ball events.
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