Pakistan’s early exit ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 has given rise to yet another controversy in the country’s cricket structure. Senior players are also included Babar Azam And Fakhar ZamanPakistan selectors have come under scrutiny after Aaqib Javed Raised questions about whether players suffered injuries during the tournament without proper disclosure.
Pakistan’s campaign ended in disappointment after failing to progress beyond the Super 8 stage, continuing a worrying trend of disappointing performances in recent ICC tournaments. With criticism increasing over team selection and player performance, new questions have now been raised regarding fitness management within the team.
Aaqib Javed sought clarity on players’ fitness
Speaking at a press conference, Javed expressed concern over the fitness status of several players during t20 world cup. The former Pakistan fast bowler revealed that after returning from the tournament, it was discovered that Babar was suffering from an injury due to which he would no longer be able to participate in domestic competitions.
Javed said the selectors were unaware of the injury issues during the World Cup and have now requested Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) To investigate the matter. According to him, it is worrying that players like Babar and Fakhar were reportedly unfit during such an important tournament despite being part of the national team.
He stressed that the team management, including the head coach and medical staff, is responsible for monitoring the fitness of the players during international events. Javed questioned why the selectors were not informed earlier if key players were struggling physically during the competition.
“Babar Azam is not fit to play. Fakhar Zaman is not fit to play. Salman Mirza is not fit to play. We are requesting the PCB to investigate. How is it possible that both Fakhar and Babar were unfit? After the World Cup, we came to know about their injuries. So, does this mean that their fitness was not being monitored during the T20 World Cup? Are they not fully fit despite being part of the team? We selectors should have been aware of it, but when the players go for the World Cup, their health issues and injury concerns should have been taken into consideration. Javed said in a press conference.
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Javed told the reason for Babar’s absence from Bangladesh series
After Pakistan returned from the tournament, the medical staff examined Babar and confirmed that his injury would prevent him from participating in upcoming domestic competitions, including the ongoing National T20 Championship and Pakistan’s series against Bangladesh.
According to Javed, the star batsman was eager to play but due to injury he has been advised not to do so. This revelation has further intensified the debate regarding Pakistan’s preparation and player management during the World Cup. The situation has raised concerns over whether players were at risk of injury during the global event, which could impact their performance and Pakistan’s overall campaign.
“When he came back from Sri Lanka, our doctors examined him (Babar Azam). His injury is preventing him from playing in this series (vs Bangladesh) and the national T20. He wanted to play, but the injury is not allowing him to do so.” Added Javed.
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