- July 9, 2025
Pakistan cricket has historically made bold choices. The approach they have taken with their squad for the upcoming T20I series against Bangladesh is yet another new twist to that exciting, unpredictable narrative. No Babar, No Rizwan, No Shaheen… Hang on, what? Yes, Pakistan has decided to go with a squad that screams “transitional phase”, and Pakistan fans are all left with questions and fascination. Mirpur’s Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium will host the three-game series starting July 20. It is time to unpack what this selection means and what drama the Pakistani cricket fans can expect.
Farewell to Familiar Faces (For Now)
The first thing fans will notice? The trio’s absence—Babar, Rizwan, and Shaheen—creates a major void in Pakistan’s lineup. It’s like going to a summer blockbuster and finding out the lead actors are on holiday. Whether it is workload management, tactical rotation, or a look into the future, there is something about the omission of the senior trio that communicates change.
While Babar and Rizwan have consistently carried the batting burden, Shaheen has been the undisputed leader of the bowling unit. Their unavailability brings in new leaders and new dynamics, and to be frank, there is a lot more unpredictability. It may be a gamble, but it is a gamble that could provide long-term benefits.
Comebacks and Curious Picks
Sure, and what is a Pakistan squad without one or two surprise selections? The returns of Faheem Ashraf and Fakhar Zaman will benefit the squad with experience. Ashraf hasn’t played a T20I since earlier in 2023, and Fakhar returns after nearly the whole of 2024. Both are match-winners if they fire on the day, but reasonable consistency will be key if they are to take their opportunity.
Another great selection is Mohammad Nawaz, the spin-bowling all-rounder who hasn’t played a T20I since January 2024. Besides the left-arm spin and low-order batting, Nawaz provides balance to the team, especially in sub-continental conditions.
But the most exciting selection is Ahmed Daniyal – a PSL 2025 performer who has finally got his first national call-up. He has a smart pace and control during the death overs and adds aggression to the bowling attack in the absence of injured quicks Haris Rauf, Naseem Shah, and Mohammad Wasim Jr.
Haris at No.3 & Agha’s Leadership Test
After his explosive 100 in the last T20I against Bangladesh, Mohammad Haris is the other obvious talent. He should stay at No.3 again, and if he gets going, expect fireworks.
And lastly, from a leadership perspective, we have Salman Ali Agha at the helm of the team. For PCB, this is a massive decision because it demonstrates they’re willing to see how leaders can be put to the test beyond exciting uncapped talent. Agha is a solid performer across all formats in fact, but leading a team full of talent, but low on experience, will be a tough task. Mirpur is a challenging ground, but Agha’s performance under pressure could be important for solidifying his credentials as a captain.
Pakistan’s lineup for the Bangladesh series is less about who is absent and more about who is coming in. This isn’t an altered assortment of familiar and new faces, but rather a spirited infusion of old returns, fresh starts, and auditions for leadership — the type of shake-up that can resonate immediately or create another set of uncertainties.
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