Shaheen Afridi Backs Young Players Amid Babar, Rizwan’s Asia Cup Exclusion

Sharjah:Pakistan fast bowler **Shaheen Shah Afridi** has reacted to the exclusion of senior players **Babar Azam** and **Mohammad Rizwan** from the Asia Cup squad, emphasizing the need to support young talent.

Babar and Rizwan, who have represented Pakistan in every major tournament since the 2021 T20 World Cup, were left out of the limited-overs team after poor form following the South Africa series in December 2024. Their omission from the Asia Cup squad sparked criticism from fans and former cricketers alike.

Speaking during a training session at Sharjah Cricket Stadium on Friday, Shaheen said, “Maybe I won’t be part of the team in the future either; everyone should get a chance. Babar and Rizwan have played good cricket for Pakistan, and God willing, they will play again. But young players should also be given opportunities, and we must support them.”

Shaheen also expressed confidence in the team’s preparation ahead of the Asia Cup, stating that the ongoing tri-nation series would be beneficial for tuning up. “No team is easy in the T20 format. Our first target is the tri-series, then the Asia Cup,” he added.

Addressing rumors about discord within the team, Shaheen dismissed such talk, saying, “We hear these things from outside, but there is nothing like that in the team. Even families have minor disagreements, but they stay within the family. Our job is to play cricket and bring happiness to Pakistan.”

Pakistan will play a tri-nation T20 series against Afghanistan and host UAE from August 29 to September 7 before the Asia Cup begins on September 9.

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