A new controversy has once again surfaced in Pakistan cricket. Reports suggest that the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) may initiate an inquiry regarding the fitness of former captain Babar Azam and opening batsman Fakhar Zaman. It is alleged that neither player was fully fit during the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, yet this information was not conveyed to the selectors in a timely manner.
PCB Inquiry: Questions Raised Over Babar Azam and Fakhar Zaman’s Injuries
The Pakistan team selectors have demanded that the PCB conduct a comprehensive investigation into the injuries sustained by Babar Azam and Fakhar Zaman. They assert that it must be determined exactly when the players sustained their injuries and why the team management failed to disclose this information in a timely manner.
Aaqib Javed’s Statement: Selectors Were Uninformed
Former Pakistan fast bowler and selector Aaqib Javed stated during a press conference that the selection committee was unaware of these injuries during the T20 World Cup. Misbah-ul-Haq, Sarfraz Ahmed, and Asad Shafiq were also present at this press conference. Javed emphasized that it is the responsibility of the team’s coaches and physiotherapists to provide accurate information regarding the players’ fitness status.
Why Was Babar Azam Ruled Out of the Bangladesh ODI Series?
Aaqib Javed also explained why Babar Azam was not included in the squad for the ODI series during Pakistan’s 2026 tour of Bangladesh. According to him, Babar is still grappling with his injury; consequently, he was unable to participate in either the series against Bangladesh or the National T20 Cup.
Plans to Provide Opportunities to Young Players
The selection committee had already decided that, following the World Cup, young players would be given opportunities during the tour of Bangladesh. The team management believes that nurturing new talent for the future is essential; therefore, several young players have been included in the squad for this tour.
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