Babar Azam set to announce T20I retirement? Pakistan star breaks silence on his future

Former Pakistan captain Babar Azam has opened up about ongoing criticism regarding his strike rate in T20 cricket during the Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2025. The right-handed batter stated that only the selectors and coaches can answer questions about his place in the Pakistan squad for T20Is.

Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan were omitted from Pakistan’s squad for the recent T20I series against New Zealand. He is currently representing Peshawar Zalmi in the PSL 2025 season. The Peshawar skipper has managed 117 runs in six games, at an average of 23.40 and a poor strike rate of 117.

Only The Selectors And Coaches Can Answer - Babar Azam

In an interview with Geo News, Babar Azam responded to the ongoing speculation surrounding his future in Pakistan’s T20I squad. He added that his focus remains on performing in all formats and that he will continue playing as long as he's able.

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“Only the selectors and coaches can answer what they’re thinking about my T20 career. My job is to perform—whether it’s in T20s, ODIs, or Tests. Selection is not in my control. As long as Allah wills, I will continue to play. We were informed that we were being rested from T20Is—now let’s see what they decide,” said Babar.

There’s A Lot Of Talk About Strike Rate - Babar Azam

Babar Azam also spoke about his strike rate and batting approach. The batter stated that he adopts his game based on the match situation and team strategy rather than outside opinions. Babar added that he doesn't need to prove himself repeatedly.

"I play according to my own game. I’m aware that nowadays there’s a lot of talk about strike rate and aggressive play. I know where cricket is heading. I don’t need to prove to anyone what kind of player I am—everyone already knows. I always play according to the situation and the team’s needs. I’m well aware of the importance of strike rate," he stated.

No One Has Changed Batting Positions As Much As I Have - Babar Azam

The 30-year-old batter also stated that he changed his position in the batting order to accommodate team needs. Babar stated that his priority has always been Pakistan, not personal milestones or preferred roles.

“No one has changed batting positions as much as I have. Whenever someone new comes in, it’s Babar who changes his number. Sometimes I go to number three, sometimes I open. For me, Pakistan comes first. The franchise wanted me to open, so I did. Then I play wherever Pakistan needs me,” he said.

"I’ve never had any personal goal that I must play as an opener. I’ve even opened in Test cricket. I started at number six and moved up and down until I became an opener. I’ve never said that I won’t play at a certain position because my performance might be affected. I’m ready to play at any number according to the team’s requirements,” he added.

The PCB shifted its attention to the 2026 T20 World Cup. As part of this approach, the selectors left out Mohammad Rizwan and Babar Azam from the T20I squad for the five-match series in New Zealand. The team, led by Salman Agha, struggled in the series and ended up losing by a margin of 4-1.

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