Former Pakistan captain backs decision to rest Babar, Rizwan, Shaheen from T20Is

Former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif has supported the Pakistan Cricket Board’s (PCB) decision to move forward in T20 internationals without senior players Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, and Shaheen Shah Afridi.

Speaking during an interview on a local YouTube channel, Latif said the board should allow experienced cricketers more freedom to explore opportunities in foreign leagues.

“They’re playing in the Big Bash and will earn decent money, and I don’t think they’d want to return either. That’s just my opinion. The PCB should give them some liberty to explore other leagues. Otherwise, it’s fine,” Latif remarked.

The former wicketkeeper-batter also stressed the importance of giving consistent chances to new talent, especially with several major events on the horizon.

“The new players should be given a chance — it’s a great opportunity, especially with the Asia Cup and other upcoming events. It’s all good; the game will keep progressing,” he added.

The trio of Babar, Rizwan, and Shaheen have not featured together in a T20I for Pakistan since the series against South Africa in 2024. They are not part of the plans for the upcoming T20I series against Bangladesh, the West Indies tour, or the proposed tri-nation series involving the UAE and Afghanistan.

Meanwhile, all three have signed deals to play in Australia’s Big Bash League (BBL) 2025–26 season.

Shaheen Afridi was selected as the first overall pick in the BBL Season 15 Draft, with Brisbane Heat securing the left-arm pacer under the platinum category.

Mohammad Rizwan was picked third overall and will make his BBL debut with the Melbourne Renegades. Babar Azam was pre-signed by Sydney Sixers ahead of the official draft, also marking his first appearance in the BBL.