Babar Azam, Saim Ayub dropped as Pakistan name revamped ODI squad for Bangladesh series

Pakistan have dropped Babar Azam and Saim Ayub from their ODI squad for the upcoming three-match series against Bangladesh, marking a major shake-up following the team’s disappointing T20 World Cup campaign.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) announced a 15-member squad that includes six uncapped players, signalling a fresh approach as the team begins preparations for future tournaments. The series will be played in Dhaka on March 11, 13 and 15.

Fast bowler Shaheen Shah Afridi will continue as captain, while former skipper Mohammad Rizwan retains his place as the team’s wicketkeeper. T20I captain Salman Ali Agha has also kept his spot in the squad, along with legspinner Abrar Ahmed and allrounder Faheem Ashraf.

One of the notable inclusions is Sahibzada Farhan, currently the leading run-scorer of the T20 World Cup. Farhan, however, is yet to make his ODI debut and has not played a domestic 50-over match since October 2024.

Several new faces could earn their first ODI caps during the tour. Hard-hitting batter Abdul Samad has been selected despite primarily playing T20 cricket, while young opener Shamyl Hussain, 20-year-old Maaz Sadaqat, Ghazi Ghori and Saad Masood are also part of the squad.

Pakistan’s bowling attack remains relatively experienced, with Haris Rauf and Mohammad Wasim Jnr joining Afridi in the pace department. Left-arm wrist spinner Faisal Akram has been included as a secondary spin option alongside Abrar.

Ayub’s omission is surprising given his strong ODI record. In just 13 matches, he has already scored three centuries and two half-centuries and played a key role in Pakistan’s series victories in Australia and South Africa in 2024.

Babar Azam, long regarded as Pakistan’s most reliable ODI batter, also misses out after a modest 2025, though he recently ended a long wait for a century during a home series against Sri Lanka.

Catch the match live updates, highlights, and full match coverage on CricRadio. Get fast, accurate, and ad-free updates throughout the game. Download the CricRadio app from the Play Store to stay connected. You can also get the live scores of cricket series directly on the CricRadio website for real-time coverage.