Babar Azam spotted playing padel after disappointing Champions Trophy

Former Pakistan captain Babar Azam has been seen playing padel tennis with friends and fellow cricketers following the national team’s early exit from the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.

After Pakistan’s disappointing campaign, in which Babar was among players who were harshly criticised for their performances, the squad returned home last week, with many taking a break from cricket.

Babar, alongside Imam-ul-Haq, Usman Qadir, and his brothers, was spotted engaging in the racquet sport as a recreational activity.

While the national team is set to tour New Zealand for a five-match T20I series from March 16, sources indicate Babar is unlikely to be included in the squad. His participation in the ODI leg of the tour remains uncertain, with selectors expected to finalise decisions soon.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is reportedly looking to introduce younger players as part of a rebuilding strategy ahead of the 2026 T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka. Captain Mohammad Rizwan is set to be rested, with all-rounder Shadab Khan among the candidates to lead the side.

Several senior players, including Babar Azam, Shaheen Afridi, Haris Rauf, Fakhar Zaman, Imam-ul-Haq, Tayyab Tahir, and Kamran Ghulam, are expected to be dropped from the T20 squad.

The selectors are likely to include emerging talents such as Mohammad Haris, Sufiyan Muqeem, Arafat Minhas, Irfan Khan Niazi, Zaman Khan, Mohammad Wasim Jr, Abbas Afridi, and Jahandad Khan.

Meanwhile, former Pakistan off-spinner Saqlain Mushtaq is expected to be appointed as the national team’s head coach. According to sources, Saqlain has accepted the role following discussions with PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi and is likely to assume duties before the team’s departure for New Zealand on March 12.

Pakistan’s tour of New Zealand, running from March 16 to April 5, includes five T20Is and three ODIs as the team looks to rebuild following its Champions Trophy disappointment.

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