Pakistan’s cricket captain Babar Azam and wicketkeeper Mohammad Rizwan have expressed their desire to play in the upcoming three-match T20 International series against Afghanistan, despite proposals to rest some senior players, including Babar and Rizwan. According to sources close to the duo, neither the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) nor the Chief Selector has contacted them about taking rest from the series. As the players get enough rest between matches in the Pakistan Super League (PSL), they feel refreshed and do not require additional rest.
However, the PCB’s selection panel led by Haroon Rasheed is considering a proposal to rest some senior players, including Babar and Rizwan, and hand over the captaincy to fast bowler Shaheen Afridi. Although there has been no official confirmation from the PCB, media reports suggest that Afridi is likely to lead the Pakistan team in place of Babar.
Sources close to Babar and Rizwan have claimed that if they are forced to take rest, it could harm the unity of the team. Every player in the dressing room is supporting one another, and the team spirit is at an all-time high. Forcing Babar and Rizwan to rest could break the team’s momentum and have a negative impact on their performances.
The series against Afghanistan is set to be a challenging one for Pakistan, given that several Afghan players participating in the ongoing PSL are performing well. The Afghan national team will be looking to build on their impressive performances in recent matches, and Pakistan cannot afford to take them lightly. Therefore, Babar and Rizwan’s participation in the series will be crucial for Pakistan’s chances of success.
It is worth noting that the PCB has not made a final decision on the matter. The selection panel is still weighing up various options, and it remains to be seen whether Babar and Rizwan will be rested or not. The PCB is expected to make an official announcement in the coming days.
In other news, the Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) and PCB have agreed to bring forward the start of the series by a day. The series will now begin on March 24, with the last two games to be played on March 26 and 27 in Sharjah, UAE.
Babar and Rizwan’s participation in the upcoming series against Afghanistan will be vital for Pakistan’s success. Their presence will boost the team’s morale and help maintain the momentum that they have built up in recent matches. While the PCB’s selection panel considers various options, the team will be hoping that Babar and Rizwan will be allowed to play and continue their impressive form.
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