The five-match T20I series between Pakistan and New Zealand will start from April 18. This match is very important for both the teams for the preparation of T20 World Cup. Imad Wasim and Mohammad Amir return to the national team after announcing their retirements ahead of the PAK vs NZ T20I series, with Babar Azam also returning as captain. But bad news is coming out about Babar Azam.
Pakistan’s standby head coach and former Pakistani all-rounder has hinted at the possibility of captain Babar Azam not playing the entire series. This is because he is being rested for a few matches. This is a rotation policy implemented by the Pakistan Cricket Board to manage the workload of players ahead of a hectic schedule in the coming months. Often teams are worried about the form of their players and take this step before mega tournaments.
This is the big reason behind giving rest to Babar Azam
Azhar Mahmood said-
“We can definitely rest Babar, but it depends on the situation, anyone can be rested. However, we will see as per the circumstances what game plan we can come up with.”
Azhar has considered taking this decision to select Pakistan’s best squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup 2024. He wants to check his bench strength properly before the tournament.
“At this time before the World Cup we want to create a game plan and give players clarity in their roles. There is a lot of young talent in our team and we have to look at them, identify our bench strengths. When we play our first T20 World Cup match on June 6, our aim will be to field the best playing 11.”