Why Babar Azam misses out vs Bangladesh? Shaheen Afridi reveals the reason

Pakistan’s ODI skipper Shaheen Afridi has opened up on the omission of star batter Babar Azam as the side prepares for a three-match ODI series against Bangladesh.

With Pakistan looking to begin a fresh cycle ahead of the ICC Cricket World Cup 2027, the absence of Babar from the squad became one of the biggest talking points before the series.

Addressing the issue, Afridi clarified that the former captain had not been dropped and said the team management was simply trying to give opportunities to younger players.

Afridi clarifies Babar Azam omission

Speaking at a press conference ahead of the series, Afridi insisted the decision was made with the future in mind as Pakistan looks to build a strong unit for the upcoming World Cup cycle.

“Look, no one was dropped for this series. We just want to give opportunity for our youngsters. They also are our future. You want to give opportunity against Bangladesh. I think when the time comes, they will also know their role and what's coming in future. We just need to prepare our team for the World Cup. It is an opportunity for the youngsters to show their skills.”

Afridi excited about new faces in the squad

Afridi also confirmed that three players are set to make their debut in the series, highlighting the team’s intention to invest in fresh talent for the future.

“There will be three debuts. Sahibzada Farhan is a top performer in T20s and in List A cricket. Maaz Sadaqat will open and Shamyl Hussain will be one down. We are also, as a team, very excited to see them play for Pakistan, and not just for one series but for the future as well,” said Afridi.

Pakistan ready for Bangladesh challenge

The Pakistan skipper also acknowledged the challenge of playing in Bangladesh, particularly in home conditions where the hosts have traditionally been strong.

“Bangladesh have a good side. They play very good cricket in home conditions. They beat West Indies recently. We are prepared as a team. We won our last two ODI series against South Africa and Sri Lanka. We played very good cricket so we just want to continue that.”

Pakistan recently missed out on a place in the semi-finals of the ICC T20 World Cup 2026, and Babar Azam once again struggled to make a major impact with the bat during the tournament.

The right-hander failed to score a half-century and managed only one score above forty throughout the competition. Questions have increasingly been raised about his form and role in Pakistan’s evolving squad as the team begins preparations for the next World Cup cycle.