PAK vs ENG: Hasan Ali reacts after Babar, Shaheen, Naseem's exclusion from Test squad

Pakistan pacer Hasan Ali has come forward to express support for his teammates Babar Azam, Shaheen Shah Afridi, and Naseem Shah, following their exclusion from the Test squad for the ongoing series against England. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) announced on Sunday (October 13) that the trio, along with Sarfaraz Ahmed, has been rested for the remaining two matches of the three-Test series.

The PCB, through a statement on X (formerly Twitter), revealed that the decision was made considering the players' current form, fitness, and upcoming commitments for the 2024-25 international cricket season. Additionally, Abrar Ahmed, who is recovering from dengue fever, was unavailable for selection.

“Taking into consideration the current form and fitness of key players and looking ahead to Pakistan’s future assignments, the selectors have decided to give rest to Babar Azam, Naseem Shah, Sarfaraz Ahmed, and Shaheen Shah Afridi,” PCB stated in their official release.

Following the announcement, Hasan Ali took to X to voice his encouragement for the trio. In a message that has since gone viral, Hasan reminded his teammates that setbacks only fuel stronger comebacks. He praised Babar, Shaheen, and Naseem for their contributions to Pakistani cricket and encouraged them to stay confident.

“Tough times only make comebacks sweeter! My brothers, you’re champions! You’ve done wonders for Pakistan and will continue to do so. Keep believing, and you’ll be back stronger than ever, Inshallah!” Hasan wrote.

Babar Azam’s exclusion, in particular, has surprised many fans and sparked debate among cricket analysts and former players. Despite criticism regarding his recent form, Babar remains one of Pakistan’s most prolific batters. At 29, he is still considered a key player, and his absence leaves a significant gap in Pakistan’s middle order as they face an England side that has already dominated the first Test, winning by an innings and 47 runs.

It is worth noting that after suffering a humiliating defeat at the hands of England in the series opener, Pakistan will face the Three Lions again in the second Test, scheduled to take place on Tuesday, 15 October, in Multan.

Pakistan’s updated squad for the remaining Tests: Shan Masood (C), Saud Shakeel (VC), Aamir Jamal, Abdullah Shafique, Haseebullah (WK), Kamran Ghulam, Mehran Mumtaz, Mir Hamza, Mohammad Ali, Mohammad Huraira, Mohammad Rizwan (WK), Noman Ali, Saim Ayub, Sajid Khan, Salman Ali Agha, and Zahid Mehmood.