Babar, Rizwan not interested in taking rest for Afghanistan series

Pakistan captain Babar Azam and wicketkeeper Mohammad Rizwan are not interested in skipping the upcoming three-match T20 International series against Afghanistan in Sharjah.

According to a media report, the selection panel led by Haroon Rasheed, is considering a proposal to rest some senior players, including Babar and Rizwan for Afghanistan series. The report further added that Shaheen Afridi is likely to lead the Pakistan team in place of Babar and the Lahore Qalandars' captain has been consulted regarding it.

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However, sources close to the duo claim that both of them are keen to take part in the series. 

No top official from Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) or Chief Selector have contacted them regarding taking rest from the aforementioned series. There is not much pressure on Babar and Rizwan during the PSL as they get enough rest between matches in the marquee league. Hence, they are feeling refreshed and there is no need for further rest.

Sources close to them further added that if they are forced into taking rest, then this step can disturb the unity of the team. After a long time, every player in the dressing room is supporting each other.

It must be noted that several players of Afghanistan national team are participating in the ongoing PSL and are performing well. Hence, the series against the Afghanistan team won’t be a cakewalk for the Men in Green.

When PCB sources were contacted regarding the matter, they said that no final decision has been taken so far. The selection panel is still pondering over different options. 

Meanwhile, Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) and PCB on Thursday jointly agreed to make slight tweaks to the itinerary of the series.

The start of the series is brought forward by a day and will now start on March 24, with the last two games to be played on March 26 and 27 in Sharjah, UAE.