Babar Azam’s Omission Raises Questions
Babar Azam’s exclusion comes after a challenging run in international and franchise cricket. The 31-year-old batter endured an underwhelming campaign in the recently concluded T20 World Cup, where he struggled for consistency.
He was even left out of Pakistan’s playing XI for a must-win fixture against Sri Lanka during the tournament. His modest returns in the Big Bash League earlier this year had already sparked debate over his form and role in the shorter formats.
While the PCB has not officially cited performance as the sole reason, the omission suggests the selectors are keen to test new combinations ahead of future ICC events. The Pakistan Cricket Board is yet to clarify whether this is a temporary move or part of a longer transition plan.
Six Uncapped Players Get Opportunity
One of the most striking aspects of the squad announcement is the inclusion of six uncapped players. Opener Sahibzada Farhan, who emerged as the leading run-scorer in the T20 World Cup, headlines the list of fresh faces.
Abdul Samad, Maaz Sadaqat, Muhammad Ghazi Ghori, Saad Masood and Shamyl Hussain have also been drafted in. Most of them recently featured for Pakistan Shaheens against England Lions, where they impressed with consistent performances.
The selectors appear to be rewarding domestic form and grooming a new generation for the 50-over format.
Rizwan Retains Spot, Afridi to Lead
Mohammad Rizwan has retained his place in the ODI setup as wicketkeeper-batter, despite not being part of Pakistan’s T20 World Cup campaign. His experience is expected to provide stability to a relatively inexperienced middle order.
Fast bowler Shaheen Shah Afridi will lead the side. The pace department also features Haris Rauf and Mohammad Wasim Jnr, indicating continuity in the bowling attack.
With a mix of youth and experience, Pakistan appear to be recalibrating their approach while maintaining a competitive core.
Full Pakistan ODI Squad
The 15-member squad for the Bangladesh ODIs includes: Shaheen Shah Afridi (captain), Abdul Samad, Abrar Ahmed, Faheem Ashraf, Faisal Akram, Haris Rauf, Hussain Talat, Maaz Sadaqat, Mohammad Rizwan (wicketkeeper), Mohammad Wasim Jnr, Muhammad Ghazi Ghori (wicketkeeper), Saad Masood, Sahibzada Farhan, Salman Ali Agha and Shamyl Hussain.
What This Means for Pakistan
Babar Azam’s absence marks a significant chapter in Pakistan cricket. As one of the country’s most prominent batters in recent years, his exclusion from the ODI side underscores the selectors’ willingness to make tough calls.
The Bangladesh series offers a testing ground for the newcomers, particularly in subcontinental conditions that demand adaptability. With all three matches scheduled in Dhaka, the team will need to quickly find balance and cohesion.
For now, the spotlight will remain firmly on how this revamped squad performs and whether the gamble to bench Babar pays dividends. The coming week could shape Pakistan’s 50-over blueprint for the remainder of 2026.
