(Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail)
Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, and Shaheen Afridi Join White-Ball Training Camp in Karachi
In a significant move by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), senior players Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, and Shaheen Shah Afridi have been included in a white-ball training camp in Karachi. Although the trio is not part of the official 15-member squad set to tour Bangladesh for the upcoming T20I series, their inclusion in the training setup highlights their continued importance to Pakistan’s future plans.
The training camp will take place at the National Bank Stadium, Karachi, from July 9 to 15, and all players, including the touring squad and additional invitees, are expected to report today (Wednesday).
A Step Towards Reintegration for Senior Players
While Babar, Rizwan, and Shaheen have not been named in the squad for the Bangladesh series, their participation in this camp suggests they are being kept match-ready for potential future assignments. With no international fixtures scheduled for Pakistan over the next month, and the trio having been out of action even longer, the camp serves as an ideal opportunity to maintain fitness and form.
Sources indicate that the senior players could be in contention for selection in upcoming series, including a potential ODI series against the West Indies—provided the format remains on the calendar.
Not Just the Big Three: Other Notables in Camp
They are joined by Naseem Shah and Mohammad Wasim Jr., both of whom are working on regaining match fitness. Though not part of the immediate squad, their presence shows PCB’s focus on long-term squad depth and player development.
PCB’s Strategic Rotation and Development Approach
This initiative is part of PCB’s broader strategy to build a balanced and competitive T20I squad, combining emerging talent with experienced heads. While younger players are being given opportunities on the Bangladesh tour, the involvement of seasoned stars like Babar, Rizwan, and Shaheen ensures continuity and mentoring within the national setup.
Conclusion
The inclusion of top-tier players in the training camp, even outside the official squad, is a positive sign for Pakistan cricket. It highlights the PCB’s commitment to player development, fitness maintenance, and team cohesion ahead of a busy international calendar.
