The Pakistan Cricket Board is considering Babar Azam’s return to the national side for the upcoming Asia Cup and tri-nation series, amid growing uncertainty around Fakhar Zaman’s fitness.
Fakhar picked up a hamstring injury during the T20I series against West Indies, leading to his exclusion from both T20I and ODI squads. He has now been sent back to Pakistan for treatment and has reported to the National Cricket Academy in Lahore.
While the medical team continues to assess his recovery, the PCB is preparing alternative plans in case Fakhar does not recover in time for the Asia Cup. One of those plans includes bringing back Babar Azam, who has reportedly impressed selectors during training sessions.
PCB officials are said to be watching Babar’s performance in the ODI series closely. A strong showing could see the former captain make a comeback for the Asia Cup, which kicks off next month in the UAE.
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Babar was recently spotted with PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi during the second T20I in the United States, along with Mohammad Rizwan and Naseem Shah, which has further fuelled talk of his potential inclusion.
The final squad announcement is expected in mid-August.
The Asia Cup will begin on 9 September, with the first match between Afghanistan and Hong Kong. Pakistan will face Oman in their opening match on 12 September, followed by a marquee clash with India on 14 September, and UAE on 17 September.
Eight teams are divided into two groups for the tournament, with Pakistan and India in Group A, and Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Afghanistan, and Hong Kong in Group B.