Director of the High Performance Centre Aaqib Javed believes that Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan must adapt their game if they want to return to Pakistan’s T20 side.

 

Speaking to reporters at Pakistan Cricket Board's (PCB) skills development camp, Aaqib confirmed that both batters have been given clear, detailed feedback on where they need to improve as part of efforts to modernise Pakistan’s style of play.

 

“Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan have also been informed about where improvement is needed,” Aaqib said. “Both are senior players, and we had honest discussions with them about how to enhance their game.”

 

The pair has often faced criticism for their steady approach in the shortest format, which many believe does not match the modern, high-scoring demands of T20 cricket. Aaqib made it clear that only players capable of consistently contributing to 200-plus totals will be part of the team’s future plans.

 

“We’ll need to score 200-plus runs,” he said. “Whether it’s a youngster or a senior player, we will go with the best available option for Pakistan. The conditions will be the same for all teams, so we have to prepare smartly and select accordingly.”

 

Head coach Mike Hesson has not ruled out their return either, but for now, the focus remains on trusting younger talent for the upcoming tours of Bangladesh and the West Indies. 

 

The PCB hopes these candid discussions will help Babar and Rizwan adapt and reclaim their place by aligning with the team’s evolving style.