Revealed: Why Babar Azam isn't selected in Pakistan squad for Asia Cup 2025

Ankitjit Singh is a Sub-Editor at Khel Now, known for his in-depth knowledge of cricket.

Published at :August 17, 2025 at 6:54 PM

Modified at :August 17, 2025 at 6:54 PM

(Courtesy : Getty Images)

Babar Azam is the leading run-getter for Pakistan in T20I cricket.

Pakistan Cricket Team‘s squad for Asia Cup 2025 was announced on Sunday (17th August). What caught the attention of many was that Babar Azam, who is one of the big names in Pakistan cricket, wasn’t picked, and it raised many eyebrows.

Babar Azam, who is the leading run-getter for Pakistan in T20I cricket, was expected to be part of the team. There were also some reports which claimed that the batter is in contention to be picked for Asia Cup 2025, especially after Fakhar Zaman got injured during the West Indies tour.

Babar Azam, who last played a T20I for Pakistan in December 2024, was sidelined from the T20I team, just like the Indian team, Pakistan followed the policy of backing the youngsters in the shortest format of the game.

With Babar Azam not being named in the Pakistan squad for Asia Cup 2025, many fans criticised the team management for the same. However, the reason behind his snub has been revealed now.

Babar has been asked to improve in some areas, particularly against spin and in terms of his strike rate – Mike Hesson

Babar Azam, Pakistan Champions One-Day Cup. (Image Source: Getty)

Pakistan head coach Mike Hesson confirmed that Babar Azam has been asked by the team management to work on his game. Speaking to the reporters, he said:

“There’s no doubt Babar has been asked to improve in some areas, particularly against spin and in terms of his strike rate,” Hesson said

For the unversed, Babar Azam has been criticised a lot by the fans and many cricket experts for his game against spinners. The senior batter often has been in the news for his slow strike in the T20Is. Currently, he only features in ODIs and tests.

Asia Cup 2025 will begin on 9th September. Before the tournament, Pakistan will play a T20I Tri-series against the UAE and Afghanistan. They will open their campaign in this year’s Asia Cup on 12th September against Oman.

Who will captain Pakistan in Asia Cup 2025?

Salman Agha will captain Pakistan in Asia Cup 2025.

When will Asia Cup 2025 begin?

Asia Cup 2025 will begin on 9th September.

Why Babar Azam hasn’t been included in Pakistan’s Asia Cup squad?

Babar Azam hasn’t been included in Pakistan’s Asia Cup 2025 squad as he has been asked by the team management to focus on facing spin and his strike rate.

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Ankitjit Singh

Ankitjit Singh is a dedicated sports journalist whose childhood dream was to play cricket—now, he serves the game through his work. With over three years of experience in reporting, writing, and editing, he brings deep insight to his coverage. A journalism graduate from Delhi University, Ankitjit’s passion for cricket took root during his college days and continues to drive his career.