Pakistan’s star cricketers Babar Azam and Naseem Shah have opted out of the National T20 Cup, stepping back from the domestic tournament due to a packed international schedule. This unexpected decision marks a shift in their preparation for upcoming key fixtures.
Initially expected to compete in the T20 Cup to regain their spots in Pakistan’s T20I squad after being dropped for the New Zealand series, both players have now chosen to focus on the upcoming ODI series against New Zealand and the Pakistan Super League (PSL), which kicks off next month.
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Babar, who was one of Pakistan’s top T20I scorers last year, faced criticism for his strike rate, which contributed to his omission. Naseem Shah, on the other hand, is returning from injury and was also left out of the T20I squad against New Zealand. Both players have been under scrutiny following their disappointing performances in the Champions Trophy.
In another development, Mohammad Rizwan, also left out of the T20I squad, is unlikely to feature in the National T20 Cup despite earlier reports suggesting otherwise. Rizwan’s name is missing from the final list, ruling out his participation as well.
Despite their absence from the domestic competition, Babar, Naseem, and Rizwan remain part of Pakistan’s ODI squad for the New Zealand series, giving them a chance to reaffirm their spots in the national team ahead of crucial white-ball assignments.
