PAK vs AUS: Azam Siddique assures fans of Babar's strong return

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Former Pakistan captain Babar Azam's father, Azam Siddique, took to social media to express his support for his son amid challenging times as Babar strives to regain his form. This comes in light of speculations regarding his potential removal from the national team squad.

Following Pakistan’s thrilling 152-run win over England in the second Test on Friday, Azam Siddique took to Instagram to clarify rumors surrounding his son’s exclusion from the national team and confirm his upcoming return.

Speculation had been rife that Babar Azam, along with Shaheen Afridi and Naseem Shah, had been dropped by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) due to their recent performances in previous series and tournaments. However, the PCB later confirmed that the players were rested and not dropped, assuring fans that they would be in action for the upcoming white-ball series against Australia.

In his Instagram post, Azam Siddique addressed these rumors and shared positive news with Babar’s supporters, saying, "My days are passing by because of your servitude. There is no complaint of friends, no complaint, O time. Insha Allah, soon Babar will be seen playing in front of you. PCB has given rest to refresh. We were satisfied with the pleasure of Allah and always will. Pakistan will live long."

The post came after Pakistan’s Shan Masood-led side secured the series-levelling victory over England. Despite not being part of the squad, Babar faced heavy criticism following his exclusion, which was prompted by a string of underwhelming performances in his last 18 Test innings.

As Pakistan and England prepare for the third and final Test in Rawalpindi from October 24 to 28, no changes have been announced to the current squad.

The Men in Green are set to play a three-match ODI and a three-match T20I series against Australia later this November. Babar Azam, Shaheen Afridi, and Naseem Shah will be making their return to the national squad for these matches.

The first ODI is scheduled for November 4, with the Pakistani contingent departing for Melbourne on October 29. Upon arrival, the team will conduct training sessions at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground on November 1 and 2, with an optional session on November 3.

ODI series schedule:

• 4 November: MCG, Melbourne (D/N) 
• 8 November: Adelaide Oval, Adelaide (D/N) 
• 10 November: Perth Stadium, Perth (D/N)

T20I series schedule:

• 14 November: The Gabba, Brisbane (N)
• 16 November: SCG, Sydney (N)
• 18 November: Bellerive Oval, Hobart (N)