Wed May 21 17:30:00 UTC 2025: **Summary:**

Pakistan has unveiled a drastically altered squad for the upcoming three-match T20I series against Bangladesh, notably excluding star players Shaheen Shah Afridi, Babar Azam, and Mohammad Rizwan. Salman Ali Agha will captain the team, marking a shift towards nurturing talent for the next T20 World Cup. The squad selection prioritizes performance in the ongoing Pakistan Super League (PSL). Mike Hesson, the former New Zealand coach, will be in charge after replacing Aaqib Javed. Sahibzada Farhan returns to the team after a strong PSL performance, along with Saim Ayub, Fakhar Zaman, and Hasan Ali after injury layoff. The PCB has also made statement on delay with match schedules.

**News Article:**

**Pakistan Shocks Cricket World: Star Trio Dropped for Bangladesh T20Is**

LAHORE: In a surprising move, Pakistan has named a revamped squad for the upcoming three-match T20I series against Bangladesh, with prominent players Shaheen Shah Afridi, Babar Azam, and Mohammad Rizwan all missing. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) announced the squad on Wednesday, stating that selections were based on performances in the ongoing Pakistan Super League (PSL).

Salman Ali Agha will lead the team as captain, signaling a focus on developing a new generation of players ahead of the next T20 World Cup. Former New Zealand coach Mike Hesson, recently appointed as head coach, will take charge for the first time.

The omission of Azam and Rizwan, previously criticized for their slow scoring rate, marks the second consecutive T20 series they will miss. Fast bowler Shaheen Afridi, had featured in the last T20 series in New Zealand.

The squad sees the return of opener Sahibzada Farhan, who has impressed in the PSL. Saim Ayub and Fakhar Zaman have also been recalled after recovering from injuries. Pacer Hasan Ali makes a comeback after a long injury layoff.

The PCB has yet to announce the match schedule, which has been delayed due to the delay to the PSL caused by the deadly India-Pakistan conflict. All three matches are slated to be held in Lahore.

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