Babar, Shaheen among key players likely to be rested for Zimbabwe white-ball series

Pakistan cricket selectors are reportedly considering 'resting' senior players, including captain Babar Azam and pace bowler Shaheen Shah Afridi, for the upcoming white-ball tour of Zimbabwe.

The move aims to provide younger players an opportunity to gain experience in international conditions.

Pakistan is scheduled to face Australia in a white-ball series starting in early November before touring Zimbabwe later during the same month.

Sources suggest that four to five key players might be left out for the Zimbabwe series to allow fresh talent to step up.

This decision comes in the wake of Pakistan’s inconsistent performance in their recent Test series against England, where they lost the first match but rebounded to win the second.

The final Test will take place in Rawalpindi from October 24-28.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is reportedly optimistic that 'resting' senior players will pay off long term, allowing them to return refreshed for the Australia series.

Babar, who has faced criticism following Pakistan's T20 World Cup exit, is expected to focus on his batting, while Mohammad Rizwan is likely to lead the side in his absence.

The tour of Zimbabwe, starting on November 24, will feature three ODIs and three T20 Internationals. For many younger players, it will be a chance to impress the selectors and secure a more permanent place in the national side.