Why is Babar Azam not playing IND vs PAK Asian Games 2026 final?
Babar Azam has been one of the best players for Pakistan across formats.
India and Pakistan are facing each other in the men’s cricket gold medal match at the Asian Games 2026 in Nisshin on Saturday. India reached the final after defeating Sri Lanka by 124 runs, while Pakistan beat Bangladesh by six wickets in a rain-affected semi-final.
India are the defending champions and are looking to retain their gold medal. Pakistan, meanwhile, are aiming to win their first men’s cricket gold at the Asian Games.
One of the biggest names missing from the Pakistan side is Babar Azam, who is not part of the squad for the tournament.
Why did Babar Azam miss IND vs PAK Asian Games 2026 final?
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Babar Azam is not playing in the IND vs PAK Asian Games 2026 final because he was not included in Pakistan’s 15-member squad announced for the tournament in June.
Pakistan named Sahibzada Farhan as captain, while Abdul Samad was appointed vice-captain. The PCB also left out several established players, including Shaheen Shah Afridi, Salman Ali Agha and Shadab Khan.
The PCB opted for a younger squad for the Asian Games. Babar’s absence will be a big talking point in the India-Pakistan final. However, Pakistan will depend on captain Sahibzada Farhan and their young squad to challenge the defending champions.
Sahibzada Farhan has been an important player for Pakistan in the tournament. The 30-year-old is also captaining Pakistan and has guided the team into the final.
Pakistan reached the gold medal match after beating Bangladesh by six wickets in a rain-affected semi-final. The match was reduced to 13 overs, but Pakistan still managed to chase down the target with nine balls to spare.
Pakistan will now hope that their younger players can perform against India and help the team win its first men’s cricket gold medal at the Asian Games.
Why is Babar Azam not playing in IND vs PAK Asian Games 2026 final?
Babar was not included in Pakistan’s 15-member squad for the Asian Games 2026.
Who is captaining Pakistan against India?
Sahibzada Farhan is captaining Pakistan in the Asian Games 2026 final.
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