Lahore – Former Pakistan fast bowler Mohammad Amir has questioned the exclusion of Babar Azam and Saim Ayub from the ODI squad for the upcoming Bangladesh series.
Speaking on a television show, Mohammad Amir asked selectors to clarify the reason behind the decision. He said it was important to explain whether the players were dropped due to performance or rested from ODI cricket.
“Were Saim and Babar dropped because of their T20 performances, or are they being rested?” Mohammad Amir asked. He said this was the first question that needed a clear answer.
He also raised concerns about their possible return. Mohammad Amir said that if the players were dropped on performance, it must be clarified how they can make a comeback. He questioned which ODI platform they would use to prove themselves again.
The former pacer also referred to the upcoming ODI World Cup. He noted that only eight months remain before the tournament. He asked whether the newly selected squad members would form the core for the World Cup.
Amir added that if the selected players fail to perform, it remains unclear whether the dropped players will return. He stressed that transparency from selectors is necessary.
Cricketer Ahmed Shehzad also criticized the move. He questioned whether Babar Azam was consulted before being left out. Shehzad said the management should clearly state the reason for his omission.
He added that Babar remains Pakistan’s best batter in ODI and red-ball cricket. According to Shehzad, the team does not have a stronger batter in these formats.
The debate began after the Pakistan Cricket Board announced a 15-member squad for the three-match ODI series against Bangladesh. The board did not explain why Babar Azam and Saim Ayub were not included.
Six uncapped players received their first ODI call-ups. This signals a major change in the squad.
Shaheen Shah Afridi will lead the side in the series. The team will arrive in Bangladesh on March 8. A practice session is scheduled for March 10.
In other news read more about Babar Azam Dropped as PCB Announces National T20 Cup Schedule
The first ODI will be played on March 11 at Shere Bangla National Cricket Stadium in Dhaka. The second match is on March 13. The final ODI will take place on March 15 at the same venue.
