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Former Pakistan pacer Tanvir Ahmed has advised Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan retirement from international cricket. This advice comes after both senior players were excluded from the squad for the upcoming Tri-Series and Asia Cup 2025.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) recently announced a 17-member squad that left out Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan. Their last T20I appearance came in December 2024 against South Africa.
Tanvir Ahmed criticized the decision, suggesting the duo should step away from international cricket. “My request to Babar Azam and Rizwan is that if you feel your respect is not intact, then consider retiring. We have examples of Virat Kohli. Respect is in your hands,” he stated.
Read More: Pakistan announces squad for T20I tri-series, Asia Cup 2025
The former pacer also raised questions over Fakhar Zaman’s inclusion, despite his injury during the West Indies tour. “Was Fakhar Zaman forced into the team, or included to keep Babar Azam out? How did he get selected?” Tanvir questioned.
The squad will be led by Salman Ali Agha. Senior players Fakhar Zaman, Shaheen Shah Afridi, and Haris Rauf are also part of the team. Rising talents including Saim Ayub, Khushdil Shah, and Hussain Talat have also been included.
The tri-series, featuring Pakistan, Afghanistan, and the UAE, will take place from August 29 to September 7 at Sharjah Cricket Stadium.
Each team will face the others twice before the final on September 7. The event will serve as key preparation for the Asia Cup 2025. This is scheduled from September 9 to 28 in the UAE.
