RAWALPINDI: Pakistan’s white-ball head coach Mike Hesson has confirmed that Babar Azam will bat at number three in the upcoming three-match T20I series against South Africa, beginning Tuesday in Rawalpindi.
Babar, Pakistan’s second-highest run-scorer in T20Is, is set for a comeback to the shortest format after nearly a year. The star batter last featured in the away series against South Africa in December 2024 but was omitted from the Asia Cup 2025 squad as selectors experimented with younger players ahead of next year’s ICC Men’s T20 World Cup.
During a media interaction at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, Hesson revealed that Fakhar Zaman’s absence from the T20 setup — to focus on his first-class game — paved the way for Babar’s return.
“I fully support Babar’s inclusion,” Hesson said. “Fakhar has gone back to first-class cricket to refine his technique, which created a space in the top order. It’s a great opportunity to have Babar back. He’s likely to bat at number three, and I’m confident he’ll do really well in that role.”
The coach emphasized that Babar’s experience and consistency would strengthen Pakistan’s middle order and give the team more options heading into the T20 World Cup 2026.
“Having Babar back gives us options going forward,” Hesson added. “He brings stability and class, both crucial as we prepare for major tournaments.”
South Africa, the 2024 T20 World Cup runners-up, will face Pakistan in a three-match series from October 28 to November 1. The opener will be played in Rawalpindi, followed by the next two games at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium.
