'No one is dropped' – Shaheen on Babar's exclusion

Pakistan ODI captain Shaheen Afridi clarified that former captain Babar Azam was not dropped from the squad for the three-match ODI series against Bangladesh. Instead, the team is opting to try younger players ahead of next year's ODI World Cup.

"No one is dropped for this series," Shaheen stated. "We want to give opportunities to our youngsters because they are our future. This is a good opportunity for them to show their skills as we prepare for the World Cup."

Babar's exclusion is notable as he is Pakistan's leading ODI scorer over the past year, with 395 runs from 12 innings, though his T20 form has been under scrutiny.

Shaheen confirmed three ODI debuts in the series opener:

• Sahibzada Farhan – a top performer in domestic and T20 cricket.
• Maaz Sadaqat – will open the batting.
• Shamyl Hussain – will bat at number three.

"We are very excited to see them play for Pakistan, not just for this series but for the future as well," he added.

On pitch conditions, Shaheen noted, "So far it feels like it could be a bit helpful for fast bowlers. We will rely on our fast bowlers, but our spinners can also contribute."

He also pointed out that several players have experience in the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL), which should help them adapt quickly. "They already know the ground and pitch, so I hope they play their best cricket."

Series Schedule (all at Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium):

• 1st ODI: Wednesday, March 11
• 2nd ODI: Friday, March 13
• 3rd ODI: Sunday, March 15