Babar and Shaheen to Be Rested Even in Limited-Overs Matches

After the innings defeat in the first Test against England, Babar Azam, Shaheen Shah Afridi, and Naseem Shah were rested for the second and third Tests. However, the rest period for Babar and Shaheen is likely to extend further. They may also be rested for Pakistan's upcoming series against Zimbabwe.

In November, Pakistan will tour Zimbabwe to play three ODIs and three T20 matches. The selectors are considering giving Babar Azam and Shaheen Shah Afridi rest during this series as well.

Recently, Babar Azam stepped down from the white-ball captaincy. Besides, he has been struggling with form, not scoring many runs for quite some time. Pacer Shaheen Shah Afridi is also going through a tough time. According to Pakistani media outlet Cricket Pakistan, the plan is to rest 4-5 senior players to give young talents an opportunity, allowing them to gain valuable experience of playing international matches abroad.

If this happens, Pakistan will field a relatively inexperienced squad against Zimbabwe. However, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is optimistic that this strategy will benefit the team in the long run.

Kamran Ghulam replaced Babar in the second Test against England, batting at number four for Pakistan. The 29-year-old right-handed batter scored a century, delivering a memorable victory for Pakistan.

Starting November 4, Pakistan will play a white-ball series in Australia, consisting of three ODIs and T20 matches. There is hope that Babar will return to the squad for that series.