Key moments

In a significant development for Pakistan cricket, former international player Mohammad Hafeez has suggested that Shan Masood and Abdullah Shafique could be viable replacements for Babar Azam in One Day Internationals (ODIs). This recommendation comes as Babar Azam and Fakhar Zaman have been rested for the upcoming ODI series against Bangladesh due to fitness concerns.

Hafeez emphasized the potential of both players, stating, “Shaan Masood (53 Ave) or Abdullah Shafiq could be better options as no3 batter in ODI format if Babar Azam is injured or rested for some reasons. Considering next World Cup in South Africa.” This statement highlights the urgency for the selection committee to consider alternatives as they prepare for future international competitions.

Shan Masood has had limited exposure in ODIs, having played only 9 matches where he scored 163 runs at an average of 18.11. However, his impressive List A record, where he has accumulated 6,413 runs in 142 matches at an average of 53, suggests he possesses the skills necessary for higher-level competition. In contrast, Abdullah Shafique has played 27 ODIs, scoring 737 runs at a more respectable average of 29.48, which includes six half-centuries and one century.

The decision to rest Babar Azam and Fakhar Zaman was made by the Pakistan men’s selection committee prior to the T20 World Cup 2026, aiming to test younger players and expand the squad pool. This move reflects a strategic approach to building a robust team capable of competing at the highest levels, particularly with the next World Cup on the horizon.

In addition to the batting options, Hafeez also reached out to promising left-arm spinner Ali Usman, who had an outstanding domestic season, taking 101 wickets across three tournaments in the 2025-26 season. Hafeez praised Usman’s performances and encouraged him to maintain a positive mindset while striving for greater goals beyond immediate rewards.

The selection committee has also requested the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to investigate the injuries sustained by Babar Azam and Fakhar Zaman during the T20 World Cup 2026. This inquiry underscores the importance of player fitness and availability as the team prepares for upcoming challenges.

As the cricketing community awaits further updates, the focus remains on how the selection committee will navigate these changes and whether Hafeez’s recommendations will be implemented. The upcoming ODI series against Bangladesh will serve as a crucial test for the players stepping into these roles, as they seek to prove their worth on the international stage.