Pakistan May Bench Either Babar Azam or Fakhar Zaman for T20 World Cup Opener
Pakistan’s team management has signaled a firm stance on player fitness ahead of the ICC T20 World Cup 2026, indicating that even senior stars could be left out of the playing XI if they are not fully fit.
Captain Salman Ali Agha confirmed that selection for Pakistan’s opening match against the Netherlands will be based purely on fitness, balance, and team requirements rather than reputation or past performances. The match is scheduled to be played on Saturday at the Sinhalese Sports Club Ground.
Speaking during a pre-match press conference, Agha made it clear that Pakistan will field only those players who are physically ready to perform at the highest level. He stressed that the team’s primary focus is to put forward the strongest possible combination for the World Cup opener.
The statement has sparked speculation that one of Pakistan’s most experienced batters, either Babar Azam or Fakhar Zaman, could be left out if fitness concerns persist. Both players have been central figures in Pakistan’s white-ball setup over the years, but the management appears unwilling to take risks.
Agha acknowledged the importance of senior players, stating that their contributions to Pakistan cricket have been significant. However, he underlined that no individual is guaranteed a place in the playing XI if they are not fully fit on match day.
He added that Pakistan arrived at the tournament with a squad of 15 players selected to offer the best possible combinations. According to the captain, the team will rely on that pool to select the most suitable XI for each match.
“We have brought 15 players here who form the best possible combination, and we will try to play exactly that,” Agha said. “If any senior player, including Babar or Fakhar, isn’t fit, we won’t play them. We will choose what is best for the team.”
The captain’s remarks highlight a shift toward a more performance- and fitness-driven selection policy, especially in a high-stakes tournament like the T20 World Cup. Team management appears focused on agility, fielding standards, and overall balance rather than relying solely on star power.
Pakistan’s approach also reflects the demanding nature of modern T20 cricket, where fitness and sharp fielding often prove decisive. With short turnarounds between matches, players carrying injuries or niggles could impact team performance.
Fans and analysts are closely watching developments ahead of the opener, as any decision involving Babar Azam or Fakhar Zaman would be a major talking point. Both players bring experience and match-winning ability, but the management seems determined to prioritize long-term tournament success.
Pakistan’s opening match against the Netherlands will set the tone for their World Cup campaign. The final playing XI is expected to be announced closer to match time after assessing player fitness during training sessions.
The clear message from the captain suggests that Pakistan is entering the tournament with a no-compromise mindset, aiming to maximize competitiveness from the very first game.
