Cricket legend Wasim Akram has called for the return of Babar Azam to Pakistan’s T20 squad, emphasizing the need for a seasoned player in the batting lineup for the upcoming Asia Cup 2025. Babar’s last T20 International for Pakistan was against South Africa in December 2024, after which he was dropped from the squad following a series of disappointing performances and a low strike rate.
In a recent interview with a local sports platform, Akram expressed his strong support for the senior batsman’s inclusion. “If I had the authority, I would definitely include Babar Azam in the national T20 team,” Akram said. “The Asia Cup and then the World Cup are approaching, and we need a senior batter. Fans may recall that when he represented Somerset in 2019, he scored runs at nearly a 150 strike rate. He has the ability to adapt his batting according to the situation,” he added.
The former left-arm pacer highlighted the importance of experience in high-pressure matches and tournaments, praising Babar’s ability to anchor an innings. “When we’re chasing 140 or 160, especially against big teams, we need someone who can take responsibility and carry the other 10 players along with him. Babar is among the world’s best players,” Akram stated. “He adjusts his game to the format and match situation—he’s done it in the past and can do it in the future as well. Babar still has a lot of cricket left in him and can achieve much for Pakistan. We all need to support him,” he added.
When asked about Babar’s ideal batting position, Akram shared his tactical perspective. “The coach can play Babar at any position he wants. In my opinion, number three is ideal for him, but it will depend on the situation. If there are more overs left, someone else could also go in to bat first,” he concluded.
Babar’s recent T20I form has been under scrutiny. In his last 10 matches, he scored 236 runs at an average of 26 without a single half-century. He also failed to reach double figures in three of his last five innings. The 30-year-old last captained the national team during the 2024 T20 World Cup, where Pakistan’s poor performance led the PCB to prioritize youth development.
