Babar Azam’s return to Pakistan’s T20I squad is on the horizon, with reports suggesting the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is preparing to recall the former captain for the upcoming home series against South Africa. Babar, who has been absent from the shortest format since December 2024, is expected to bring much-needed stability to Pakistan’s batting lineup.
Cricket journalist Saleem Khaliq revealed that the PCB had even considered flying Babar to the UAE midway through the Asia Cup when Pakistan’s batting faltered, but tournament rules prevented changes unless due to injury. His absence had fueled debates, especially given his standing as the second-highest run-scorer in T20I cricket.
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Head coach Mike Hesson, who has experimented with different approaches in Babar’s absence, never ruled out the possibility of his return. With a packed international calendar ahead, including the 2026 T20 World Cup, Babar’s comeback is seen as a strategic step to strengthen Pakistan’s top order.
If confirmed, the South Africa series—scheduled from October 28 to November 1—will mark Babar Azam’s first T20I appearance in nearly a year, giving him the opportunity to reestablish his role as a key pillar of Pakistan’s batting.
