Babar Azam Recalled for South Africa T20Is as Fakhar Zaman Opts Out, Says Coach Mike Hesson

Rawalpindi – October 27: Former Pakistan captain Babar Azam has been recalled to the national Twenty20 International (T20I) side for the upcoming three-match series against South Africa after opener Fakhar Zaman withdrew from the squad, head coach Mike Hesson confirmed on Sunday.

Babar, who last featured in a T20I in May, had been left out of Pakistan’s last five T20 assignments under Hesson’s tenure, including series against Bangladesh, the West Indies, and the Asia Cup. His omission was attributed to concerns over his strike rate, but Hesson said Babar’s latest inclusion followed a “logical adjustment” after Zaman opted to step away.

“Fakhar wanted to focus on improving his one-day game, so we decided to give him a break from T20s,” Hesson told reporters during a training session at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium. “That opened up a spot for another top-order player, and I certainly endorse Babar’s selection.”

The coach confirmed that Babar would return in the number three position instead of his traditional opening role. “It’s a great chance to have Babar back,” Hesson said. “He’s likely to bat at number three, and I’m confident he’ll perform well. It also gives our squad flexibility ahead of the T20 World Cup.”

The tournament, scheduled for February-March next year in India and Sri Lanka, remains a key focus for Pakistan’s white-ball setup, with Hesson indicating that Babar remains central to the team’s long-term plans.

Babar’s return coincided with the exclusion of wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Haris, who has struggled for consistency despite early promise. “Haris has had a number of opportunities but hasn’t made the most of them,” Hesson noted. “He needs to work on his decision-making and overall batting approach.”

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