why is babar azam not playing

Babar Azam is not playing in the current Pakistan T20 squad, including the Asia Cup 2025, primarily due to concerns about his recent form and low strike rate, especially against spin bowling. The Pakistan head coach Mike Hesson and selectors have asked Babar to improve these aspects before he can be reconsidered for selection. Babar has been out of the T20I side since December 2024 and has been demoted from Category A to Category B in Pakistan's central contracts. The decision is part of a strategic shift towards younger, more aggressive players who are performing better in the format. While Babar is not ruled out permanently, his return depends on showing improvement in his game, particularly his scoring tempo in T20 cricket.