Pakistan fast bowler Shaheen Shah Afridi has shared his thoughts on the absence of senior players Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan from the upcoming Asia Cup 2025 squad.Both players, ever-present in multi-nation tournaments since the 2021 T20 World Cup, have been out of the T20 setup after the South Africa series last December.Their exclusion from the Asia Cup squad, as selectors prioritize youngsters ahead of the 2026 T20 World Cup, has sparked heavy criticism from fans and pundits.
Speaking in Sharjah, Shaheen acknowledged the duo’s stature, calling them “world-class players” who have served Pakistan well.He expressed confidence that they would return to international cricket in the future.At the same time, he stressed the importance of providing opportunities to the younger players in the squad.
“I won’t be here either in the future, everyone should get the opportunity,” Shaheen remarked.He urged fans and media to support the newcomers, saying they are also part of Pakistan’s cricketing future.According to him, young players must grab their chances with both hands to establish themselves.
Shaheen’s comments came during Pakistan’s training session at Sharjah Cricket Stadium.The team is preparing for a tri-nation T20I series against Afghanistan and hosts UAE starting August 29.The series will serve as a build-up to the Asia Cup, which runs from September 9 to 28.
