With Fakhar Injured, Can Babar Azam Make a Comeback?

News Desk 

Dubai: Pakistan opener Fakhar Zaman’s hamstring injury has triggered renewed speculation over Babar Azam’s potential return to the national T20I setup, just weeks ahead of the Asia Cup in the UAE.

Fakhar, 35, suffered the injury during the second T20I against the West Indies in Lauderhill while attempting a save in the outfield.

He was immediately ruled out of the final T20I and the subsequent ODI series, returning to Lahore for rehabilitation under the supervision of the National Cricket Academy’s medical team.

While a detailed assessment is still awaited, his participation in the Asia Cup appears increasingly unlikely.

Babar Azam Back in Contention

With the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) set to announce its squad for the Asia Cup and the preceding tri-nation T20I series in Sharjah next week, Fakhar’s unavailability could prompt a shift in selection strategy.

Having leaned heavily on emerging talent in recent months, the selectors may now be compelled to reconsider experienced options — placing former captain Babar Azam firmly back in the conversation.

Babar, who has been out of the T20I squad since December 2024 following a dip in form and Pakistan’s underwhelming World Cup performance, has averaged just 26 in his last 10 T20I outings without a single half-century.

Despite this lean patch, his experience and leadership could be crucial in high-stakes matches, including the much-anticipated Asia Cup clash against India on September 14.

Sources within the selection committee confirm that Babar has not been ruled out. His recent meeting with PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi and head coach Mike Hesson — alongside ODI skipper Mohammad Rizwan and pacer Naseem Shah — indicates he remains part of the board’s broader plans.

A Test of Strategy: Rebuild or Revert?

Pakistan begin their tri-series campaign on August 29 in Sharjah, facing Afghanistan and UAE. The PCB has been pursuing a rebuilding strategy, with players like Salman Ali Agha leading a young side to a 2-1 series win over the West Indies.

Yet, with Fakhar’s injury posing a selection dilemma, the decision-makers are weighing whether to stay the course or inject seasoned firepower.

“No formal discussions have been held on Babar yet,” a PCB official told reporters. “The focus remains on giving younger players a consistent opportunity, but the situation will be reviewed once the West Indies tour concludes.”

For now, the team’s plans hinge on the final medical report on Fakhar Zaman. If ruled out, it could open the door for Babar Azam’s return — setting the stage for a high-stakes comeback just as Pakistan gears up for one of its toughest tournaments of the year.

Inpur from Gulf News.