Mohin Naqvi reveals his “ Role ” behind the omissions of Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan of Pakistan’s Asia Cup Squad

The omission of Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan from Pakistan’s Asia Cup 2025 squad took everyone by surprise, but Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi insists he had no involvement in the decision. Speaking at a press conference in Lahore, Naqvi clarified that selection matters lie solely with the management and selectors.

“I do not even have a one per cent role in the team selection,” Naqvi said. “I have told them that whatever decision is made should be on the basis of merit and I will support it.”

He went on to stress that his role is to create an environment where competition thrives. “Whatever lot was available to us, we polished it and took it forward. Our effort is to bring as many new people as possible so we have more competition in cricket and the best people come up.” Naqvi’s words are seen as an attempt to quash speculation that the PCB hierarchy had forced through the high-profile exclusions.

For years, Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan have been the anchors of Pakistan’s batting. Their partnership at the top gave the team consistency. But heading into the Asia Cup, the selectors have gone in a different direction. Both men have been left out, majorly becuase of their not-so-aggressive scoring rate.

Head coach Mike Hesson has already hinted at why the decision was made. Babar, he believes, must show he can push his strike rate to match the modern demands of T20s. Rizwan, despite his steady returns, has often been questioned for the pace at which he starts in the powerplay. By leaving them out, the management is backing a riskier, but more aggressive template.