No Babar or Rizwan in Pakistan Asia Cup 2025 Squad, Salman Takes Over!

The Asia Cup Pakistan squad has been announced for the upcoming 17th edition of the tournament and the Tri-Series starting from August 29. On Sunday, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) revealed the 17-member squad, leaving many surprised with some notable exclusions.

The omission of Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan from the squad has stirred widespread surprise. Both players, who have long been pillars of Pakistan’s lineup for years, were notably not part of the T20I setup during the recent West Indies tour.

It has also been confirmed that the same squad will feature in the Tri-Series against the UAE and Afghanistan ahead of the tournament. Let’s find out the details of Pakistan playing 11 for Asia Cup 2025.

Pakistan Squad for Asia Cup 2025

Salman Ali Agha (captain), Abrar Ahmed, Faheem Ashraf, Fakhar Zaman, Haris Rauf, Hasan Ali, Hasan Nawaz, Hussain Talat, Khushdil Shah, Mohammad Haris (wicket-keeper), Mohammad Nawaz, Mohammad Waseem Jnr, Sahibzada Farhan, Saim Ayub, Salman Mirza, Shaheen Shah Afridi, and Sufyan Moqim.

Key players like Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan missed the Pakistan playing 11 for Asia Cup. Making the big move, PCB and selectors named Salman Ali Agha as the captain. The selectors also showed trust in the young players like Saim Ayub and Hasan Nawaz.

Babar Azam served as the captain of the Pakistan team during the Asia Cup 2023. Unfortunately, the team had a disappointing performance, winning only two out of the five matches they played. Selectors and experts attributed this underperformance to a lower strike rate while also focusing on preparing the players for the upcoming T20 World Cup in 2026.

Coach Mike Hesson emphasized that this team selection is part of a broader strategic shift toward aggressive, impact-driven batting. With the Asia Cup and Tri-Series forthcoming, the PCB is backing players and believing this fresh approach can pave the way to success. Meanwhile, former pacer Tanvir Ahmed publicly urged Babar and Rizwan to consider retirement, suggesting their prolonged absence could signal a new era for Pakistan’s T20 side.

On the other hand, India has not yet announced its Asia Cup Squad, but fans can consider checking the most accurate Asia Cup playing 11 of Indian team. Similar to Pakistani Squad, the Indian squad may have some surprising elements.

Mistake or Masterstroke? Why Babar Azam was Left Out?

The PCB has excluded Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan from the Asia Cup Pakistan squad, citing their low strike rates and the need for other improvements. However, it’s important to recognize that this duo has formed outstanding partnerships in previous major tournaments, including the T20 World Cup. This brings up a key question: Is this decision a masterstroke or a mistake?

The PCB said Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan were dropped to bring a more aggressive style in T20 cricket. Babar has been asked to improve his strike rate and play spin more effectively before making a return. Head coach Mike Hesson explained that selectors want impact players and are giving chances to in-form batters like Sahibzada Farhan.

The move shows a bold shift in strategy, but leaving out two players with proven partnerships in major tournaments has left many wondering if this is a masterstroke or a mistake.

Pakistan’s Asia Cup & Tri-series 2025 Matches

Pakistan will play its first match against Oman on September 12, and its most-awaited clash is on September 14 against India. Salman Ali Agha will lead Pakistan in the tournament with younger players Shaheen Afridi and Fakhar Zaman, while leaving out the experienced Babar and Rizwan.

Pakistan Matches in Asia Cup:

• Oman vs Pakistan – 12^th September
• India vs Pakistan – 14^th September
• UAE vs Pakistan – 17^th September
• Super Four Matches – 20-26^th September

Note – Further, Pakistan may play in the final on 28^th September if qualifies for the same.

Pakistan, UAE, Afghanistan Tri-series 2025: