Aaqib Javed defends Babar Azam’s inclusion for Sri Lanka World Cup
By Nawaz Gohar ; Pakistan’s national selection committee, alongside the captain and head coach, has formally addressed the media regarding the squad composition for the upcoming World Cup in Sri Lanka. The management emphasized that “conditions-based selection” was the driving force behind the final roster.
The Babar Azam Factor
National Selector Aaqib Javed defended the decision to include veteran batter Babar Azam, citing his necessity in challenging environments. “In testing conditions like those in Sri Lanka, Babar Azam’s presence is vital. He possesses the technique to play a pivotal role in any situation,” Javed stated.
Javed further critiqued the team’s historical approach, noting that Pakistan has often struggled by playing T20s with a Test or ODI mindset. He expressed hope that while Pakistan exited early in recent ICC events, the current form of the players offers the nation a renewed sense of optimism. Regarding the World Cup participation, he clarified: “Our job as selectors is to pick the best team; the final decision to travel lies with the Government of Pakistan.”
National captain Salman Ali Agha was candid about the team’s past failures but remained focused on the challenge ahead. “To win, we must play high-quality cricket. There are no shortcuts,” he remarked.
Predicting the nature of the tournament, Salman noted that Sri Lankan tracks typically do not produce high-scoring encounters. “We expect modest totals, which means individual roles and situational awareness will be far more important than fixed batting positions. While Babar didn’t fire in Australia, his recent form and overall contributions to Pakistan remain a major asset for us.”
Mike Hesson’s Strategy
Head Coach Mike Hesson provided clarity on specific player roles and injury concerns. He praised Usman Khan for his impressive return and wicket-keeping skills against Sri Lanka. Addressing Sahibzada Farhan, Hesson explained that despite being a key player, his recent injury struggles meant the management could not take unnecessary risks with his fitness.
On the tactical front, Hesson confirmed the following:
Bowling: The pace attack was specifically handpicked to suit the humidity and pitch conditions of Sri Lanka.
Batting Order: Despite opening in the Big Bash League (BBL), Babar Azam will retain his traditional one-down (No. 3) position for the national side.
The management concluded by stating that the squad represents a blend of experience and specialists suited for the subcontinental spin-friendly yet sluggish tracks expected in the World Cup.
