Asia Cup 2025: ‘Need a senior batter’ Wasim Akram calls for this player’s return for continental tournament | Cricket News
Former Pakistan fast bowler Wasim Akram has called for Babar Azam’s return to Pakistan’s T20I team for the upcoming Asia Cup in September, emphasising the need for an experienced player in the squad after Babar was dropped from the T20I format following his last appearance against South Africa in December 2024.The Pakistan Cricket Board removed Babar from T20Is due to his underwhelming performances and strike rate issues.
Go Beyond The Boundary with our YouTube channel. SUBSCRIBE NOW!With the Asia Cup approaching and Pakistan still searching for their optimal team combination, Akram strongly advocates for Babar’s reinstatement.“If I had the authority, I would definitely include Babar Azam in the national T20 team. The Asia Cup and then the World Cup are approaching, and we need a senior batter. Fans may recall that when he represented Somerset in 2019, he scored runs at nearly a 150 strike rate. He has the ability to adapt his batting according to the situation,” Akram said in an interview with Geo News.
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The former Pakistan captain highlighted Babar’s ability to adapt his batting style and lead the team effectively.“When we’re chasing 140 or 160, especially against big teams, we need someone who can take responsibility and carry the other 10 players along with him. Babar is among the world’s best players. He adjusts his game to the format and match situation — he’s done it in the past and can do it in the future as well,” Akram stated.Akram further expressed his confidence in Babar’s future potential and versatility in batting positions.“Babar still has a lot of cricket left in him and can achieve much for Pakistan. We all need to support him. The coach can play Babar at any position he wants. In my opinion, number three is ideal for him, but it will depend on the situation. If there are more overs left, someone else could also go in to bat first,” he added.The Asia Cup is scheduled to begin on September 9, with Pakistan’s first match against Oman set for September 12 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.
