Pakistan star batter Babar Azam is not part of the squad for the upcoming ODI series against Bangladesh. The Pakistan Cricket Board has confirmed that he is currently recovering from an injury suffered during the recent T20 World Cup.
Team selectors explained the situation during a press conference and said the decision was made after medical advice.
PCB Gives Injury Update on Babar Azam
Pakistan selector Aaqib Javed addressed the media along with Misbah-ul-Haq, Sarfaraz Ahmed and Asad Shafiq. He explained that Babar Azam wanted to return to domestic cricket, but doctors advised him not to rush back.
After medical examinations, it was decided that Babar is not fit enough to take part in the Bangladesh ODI series or the upcoming T20 tournament.
Read more: Babar Azam & Fakhar Zaman Injury Controversy
| Detail | Update |
|---|---|
| Player | Babar Azam |
| Issue | Injury from T20 World Cup |
| Status | Not fit for Bangladesh ODIs |
| Medical advice | Rest and recovery |
Even though Babar wanted to play, the medical team recommended more time for recovery before returning to competitive matches.
Babar Azam’s Performance in T20 World Cup 2026
Babar Azam’s performance during the T20 World Cup 2026 was below his usual standards. He scored 91 runs in four innings during the tournament.
| Match | Runs |
|---|---|
| vs USA | 46 |
| vs India | 5 |
| Other innings | 40 combined |
His strike rate in the tournament was 112.34. Pakistan were eventually eliminated in the Super Eight stage and did not reach the final rounds.
Also See : Hardik Pandya Left Out of All-Time CSK vs MI Combined XI Ahead of IPL 2026
Consistency Concerns Since 2024
There has been discussion about Babar Azam’s form over the past couple of years. Since 2024, his performances have been less consistent compared to earlier stages of his career.
Despite this, his overall T20 record remains strong.
| Category | Record |
|---|---|
| International T20 runs | 4500+ |
| International T20 strike rate | 128.02 |
| Overall T20 runs | 11000+ |
| T20 centuries | 11 |
| T20 half-centuries | 98 |
| Overall T20 strike rate | 128.31 |
These numbers show that Babar still remains one of the most successful batters in T20 cricket.
Focus on Pakistan Super League 2026
Babar Azam is expected to return to action in the Pakistan Super League 2026. He will open the batting for Peshawar Zalmi in the tournament.
The PSL season could help him regain form and fitness before returning to international cricket.
| Team | Role |
|---|---|
| Peshawar Zalmi | Opening batter |
The league will provide Babar with an opportunity to rebuild confidence and prepare for future international matches.
What Happens Next
Pakistan’s team management has decided to give opportunities to other players during the Bangladesh ODI series. Meanwhile, Babar Azam will focus on recovering from his injury and regaining form.
If his recovery goes well, he could return to Pakistan’s T20I squad after the PSL season.
