Mohammad Amir, Mohammad Yousuf revolt against Mohsin Naqvi after Babar Azam’s ODI axing

Mohammad Amir, Mohammad Yousuf revolt against Mohsin Naqvi after Babar Azam’s ODI axing

Pakistan Cricket in Turmoil: Babar Azam Dropped from ODI Squad Sparks Outrage

The Shocking Decision

Pakistan cricket has once again found itself in the midst of drama with the recent decision to drop Babar Azam from the ODI squad for the upcoming Bangladesh tour. This move has not only shocked fans but has also left former cricketing stars questioning the rationale behind the Pakistan Cricket Board’s (PCB) decision-making process.

Performance Concerns

Following a lackluster performance in the T20 World Cup 2026, where Pakistan failed to advance beyond the Super 8 stage, Babar Azam, one of the biggest names in Pakistan cricket, has been made the scapegoat for the team’s shortcomings. The selectors, led by Mohsin Naqvi, have cited Babar’s recent poor form as the primary reason for his exclusion from the ODI team.

In the T20 World Cup, Babar Azam only managed to score 91 runs in four matches, averaging 22.75 with a strike rate of 111. His ODI numbers in 2025 were also underwhelming, scoring 544 runs at an average of 34 with a strike rate below 80, raising concerns about his ability to score quickly in modern-day cricket.

A New Direction

In a bid to revamp the team and prepare for the future, especially with an eye on the 2027 ODI World Cup, the PCB has introduced six new players to the squad for the Bangladesh tour. The inclusion of Abdul Samad, Maaz Sadaqat, Muhammad Ghazi Ghori, Saad Masood, Sahibzada Farhan, and Shamyl Hussain signals a shift in strategy by the selectors.

Backlash from Former Players

However, this bold move has not been well-received by several former cricketers, including Mohammad Yousuf and Mohammad Amir, who have openly criticized the decision to drop Babar Azam from the squad.

A Question of Clarity

Mohammad Yousuf, a former Pakistan captain and coach, expressed his disbelief at the decision, questioning the rationale behind dropping Babar Azam at this stage. He took to social media to voice his concerns, labeling the move as “mind-boggling” and calling out the selectors for their “senseless decisions.”

Similarly, Mohammad Amir raised doubts about the clarity of the situation, demanding to know whether Babar Azam was being rested or permanently dropped from the team. He emphasized the need for transparency from the PCB regarding their plans for the upcoming tournaments and the role of the new players in the squad.

Appeal for Clarity

Ahmed Shehzad also joined the debate, highlighting the need for transparency and clarity in the decision-making process. He emphasized that Babar Azam’s fans deserve an explanation for the sudden axing of the star player and called for the PCB to provide clear reasons for their actions.

Conclusion

The exclusion of Babar Azam from the ODI squad has sparked outrage and debate within the cricketing community. While the PCB aims to usher in a new era of talent, the decision to drop a seasoned player like Babar Azam has raised questions about the selectors’ vision and strategy moving forward.

As Pakistan cricket navigates through this turbulent period, all eyes will be on the performance of the new players and the team’s future direction in the run-up to the 2027 ODI World Cup.

Impact on Team Dynamics

The exclusion of Babar Azam from the ODI squad not only raises questions about individual player performance but also has implications for team dynamics. As a key figure in the team, Babar Azam’s absence may disrupt the balance and chemistry that the players have developed over time. The introduction of six new players could potentially alter the team’s cohesion and strategies, requiring the remaining players to adapt to new partnerships and playing styles.

Fan Reactions and Public Perception

The decision to drop Babar Azam has not only stirred controversy within the cricketing community but has also sparked a strong reaction among fans. Social media platforms are abuzz with debates and discussions about the PCB’s selection process and the treatment of star players like Babar Azam. Fans, who have supported Babar through thick and thin, are expressing their disappointment and frustration over the sudden exclusion of the talented batsman.

This public outcry underscores the passionate following and emotional investment that cricket enjoys in Pakistan. Fans have a deep connection with their favorite players and are vocal about their opinions on team selection and performance. The PCB’s handling of the situation will undoubtedly have a lasting impact on public perception and support for the national team.

Redefining Success and Expectations

While the decision to drop Babar Azam may have come as a shock to many, it also signals a shift in the definition of success and expectations within the Pakistani cricketing landscape. By prioritizing the inclusion of young, promising players in the squad, the PCB is signaling a focus on long-term development and a commitment to building a strong foundation for future tournaments.

This redefinition of success challenges traditional notions of relying solely on established stars and calls for a more holistic approach to team building. The selectors’ decision reflects a willingness to take risks, experiment with new talent, and embrace change in order to stay competitive on the international stage.

The Road Ahead

As Pakistani cricket enters a new phase of transition and transformation, the coming months will be crucial in determining the success of the selectors’ bold move. The performance of the new players in the ODI series against Bangladesh will be closely scrutinized, not only for their individual contributions but also for the impact on the team as a whole.

The pressure is on for the PCB to justify its decision and demonstrate that the exclusion of Babar Azam was a strategic move aimed at strengthening the team’s overall performance. The upcoming series will serve as a litmus test for the selectors’ vision and the team’s ability to adapt to change while maintaining its competitive edge.

Regardless of the outcome, one thing is certain – the world of Pakistani cricket is in for a period of uncertainty and transformation, as it navigates through the aftermath of Babar Azam’s shocking exclusion and charts a new course towards future success.

Latest News