Pakistan national cricket team batter Babar Azam was left out of Pakistan’s recent limited-overs squad due to injury, according to Aaqib Javed, who said the former captain has not yet recovered from a problem sustained during the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026. Speaking at a press conference alongside former players Misbah-ul-Haq, Sarfaraz Ahmed and Asad Shafiq, Javed said medical staff advised Azam not to play competitive cricket until he fully recovers.

“Some players have not been included in this series, especially Babar Azam. When he returned, our doctors examined him, and his injury currently does not allow him to play in this series or in the T20 tournament,” Javed said. “Although he wanted to play, he is still injured.”

Azam was omitted from Pakistan’s squad for the ongoing ODI series against Bangladesh national cricket team, where Shaheen Shah Afridi is leading a relatively inexperienced side. Head coach Mike Hesson earlier said the management wanted to provide opportunities to younger players as the team begins preparations for upcoming international tournaments.

Pakistan had a disappointing campaign at the T20 World Cup, failing to reach the semifinals. Azam endured a difficult tournament, scoring 91 runs in four innings, with a highest score of 46 against the United States national cricket team. He also managed only five runs against India national cricket team before being dismissed by Axar Patel.

The 31-year-old batter has faced scrutiny over his recent form, with critics noting a dip in consistency since 2024 despite his strong overall record in T20 cricket.

Azam is expected to return to action in the Pakistan Super League, where he will open the batting for Peshawar Zalmi.