Aqib Javed Archives

Aqib Javed dismisses Babar-Rizwan comparison as ‘illogical’

LAHORE: Pakistan Cricket Board’s (PCB) Director of High Performance and national selector Aqib Javed has dismissed comparisons between Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan over a spot in the national team’s squad for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, which is set to played in India and Sri Lanka.

While addressing the media, Aqib answered a question regarding the selection of Babar Azam over Mohammad Rizwan in Pakistan’s World Cup squad.

“You have to look at how the batting composition of your team shapes up. Babar is seen by both the coach and the captain as someone who can play a vital role in the team. This doesn’t mean that if one player is given a chance, another is denied one,” he remarked.

“We don’t think in terms of comparing one player to another or why one was chosen and the other wasn’t. There’s no logic in that. What you need to see is who fits better in the squad and which player makes the team stronger,” he explained.

Follow us on our Official WhatsApp channel

Meanwhile, white ball head coach Mike Hesson praised ‘exeptional’ Usman Khan for his wicket-keeping and emphasized his role in the team amid debate surrounding Mohammad Rizwan’s inclusion.

“When it comes to Usman Khan’s performance, we consider the availability we have and the type of cricket we want to play,” Hesson said.

“You build a composition of 7–8 batsmen, and you need to see what type of players come together to form a batting unit that can perform in any total or under any conditions,” he added.

He highlighted Usman’s performances while revealing the particular role that is required from him during the tournament.

“Usman Khan has been exceptional since he came back. He remained not out in three chases where we were losing wickets, and he has shown experience. His wicketkeeping is going probably better than expected. In Sri Lanka, it was high quality,” Hesson said.

“The role we have for our keeper is someone through the middle, batting at five or six. You are not comparing the same, as Rizwan is a top-order batter. There’s no spot in that role for a wicketkeeper,” Hesson concluded.

Earlier in the morning, Pakistan revealed the squad for ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 with skipper Salman Ali Agha set to lead the 15-member side.

Pakistan T20 World Cup Squad

Salman Ali Agha (Captain), Abrar Ahmed, Babar Azam, Faheem Ashraf, Fakhar Zaman, Khawaja Mohammad Nafay (WK), Mohammad Nawaz, Mohammad Salman Mirza, Naseem Shah, Sahibzada Farhan, Saim Ayub, Shadab Khan, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Usman Khan (WK), and Usman Tariq.

READ: Hesson reveals reason behind Haris Rauf’s T20 World Cup exclusion

Received calls from India for fast-bowling guidance, claims Aqib Javed

LAHORE: Former Pakistan pacer and PCB director of High-Performance Aqib Javed has claimed that India contacted him seeking guidance for their fast bowlers through the board’s overseas players program.

Aqib, who is also a member of the national selection committee, appeared on the PCB’s podcast to discuss Pakistan cricket, high-performance structures, and future planning.

During the podcast, he spoke about the National High Performance Center, which serves as the board’s engine room for player development.

“We have big plans for the NCA [National Cricket Academy], including a fully functional biomechanics lab,” said Aqib Javed.

“The good news is that this lab, which had not been operational since 2006 and has been accredited by the ICC, is set to be functional in the upcoming months,” he revealed.

“With this facility, we can check illegal actions and work on improving player performance,” Aqib maintained.

Aqib also highlighted the PCB’s pathway program for overseas cricketers, which offers coaching and training programs to cricketing nations worldwide.

“Overseas and foreign players can now come to Pakistan for training, with recent arrivals from the Netherlands and England.”

Follow us on our Official WhatsApp channel

He also termed the program a litmus test for Pakistan cricket, noting that they would only understand their strengths when challenged.

He also revealed that calls had already come from India seeking guidance for their fast bowlers.

“Until we challenge ourselves, we won’t know how we compare globally, how capable our coaches are, or how strong our systems really are.

This is a program that will eventually spread worldwide. We have already received calls from India requesting guidance for their fast bowlers,” he claimed.

On this, the host remarked that Indians are reluctant nowadays to even shake hands with their Pakistani counterparts.

“Common people think differently, and bureaucracy approaches things in a slightly different way,” Aqib replied in a light-hearted manner.

READ: Arteta hints at Gabriel Jesus return ahead of League Cup clash

Aqib Javed breaks silence on Babar Azam’s T20I exclusion

Pakistan Cricket Board’s (PCB) Director of High Performance and national selector Aqib Javed has shared his thoughts on the exclusion of ace batter Babar Azam from the national T20I side.

Speaking in an interview with Crickwick, Aqib responded to the question regarding Babar’s exclusion from the T20I team after the tour of South Africa in December 2024.

Babar Azam was dropped from the Pakistan team following the 2024 tour of South Africa. The right-handed batter was reportedly sidelined from the shorter format amid criticism of his strike rate, which was deemed below modern-day standards.

However, the 31-year-old recently made his comeback in the limited-overs format during the series against South Africa.

“Look, these are just common opinions people have — everyone has their own views. One thing a person must understand is that when you’re working in a certain position, criticism will come with it,” he said regarding his role.

He discussed praise and criticism when an individual is in a managerial role, noting that the scrutiny for players depends on their performance.

Follow us on our Official WhatsApp channel

“Credit always goes to the players, while criticism comes to the management — and I’m well aware of that.

I always tell players that their praise or criticism depends entirely on their own performance. If you perform well, no one will criticize you; if you perform poorly, people will. That’s how it is,” the 52-year-old explained.

Aqib clarified that dropping Babar was a collective decision and it was not his decision.

“As for Babar, why would it matter to us whether we target one player or another? People say that since someone [Babar] was dropped from the T20 side, I must have a personal issue with him — but if that’s the case, then am I being personal with Babar only in one format?” he questioned.

“For instance, I may not have any issue with him in Tests, only in T20s. And by the way, who am I, as an individual, to select or drop anyone? These are collective decisions — made by the entire selection committee.

I’m not at the level where I can favor or go against any player on a personal basis,” he concluded.

READ: Pakistan sanctioned for slow over-rate in first Sri Lanka ODI

Aqib Javed to supervise spin-friendly pitch preparation for Rawalpindi Test

Director of High Performance and national selector Aqib Javed is set to reach Rawalpindi on Friday to oversee pitch preparations for the second Test between Pakistan and South Africa.

The second Test is scheduled to begin on October 20 at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, with the hosts holding an unassailable 1-0 lead in the two-match series.

According to reliable sources, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has instructed the ground staff to prepare a turning track, continuing their ongoing strategy in home Test matches.

Sources revealed that the pitch curators have been working tirelessly for the past three days to ensure conditions favour spin.

Follow us on our Official WhatsApp channel

Aqib’s visit is aimed at reviewing the surface and ensuring it aligns with Pakistan’s tactical plans for the series decider.

Both teams are expected to arrive in Islamabad on Friday, with Pakistan riding high on their 93-run victory in the opening Test at the Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore.

The hosts defended a target of 277, bowling out South Africa for 183 on the fourth day to take a 1-0 lead in the two-match series.

Notably, Pakistan have leaned heavily on spin-friendly pitches in home Tests since last year’s series against England.

Catch Pakistan vs South Africa news updates here!

After suffering a crushing defeat by an innings and 47 runs in the first Test, Pakistan made significant changes under Aqib Javed’s guidance, both in team selection and pitch strategy.

The approach, which included preparing drier, spin-assisted surfaces, proved successful as Pakistan bounced back to win the remaining two Tests and clinch the series 2–1.

The formula has since become central to Pakistan’s red-ball approach at home.

READ: Amir set to spearhead Quetta Qavalry attack in Abu Dhabi T10 League

Aqib Javed backs Pakistan to beat India in Asia Cup 2025

LAHORE: National selector Aqib Javed has expressed confidence in the Pakistan team’s ability to beat any side, including India, ahead of the much-anticipated Asia Cup 2025, which will begin in September 2025.

The upcoming edition of the continental tournament will be held in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and played in the T20 format, serving as a key build-up to the ICC T20 World Cup 2026.

The tournament will feature eight teams split into two groups. Group A comprises Pakistan, India, the UAE, and Oman, while Group B includes Bangladesh, Afghanistan, Sri Lanka, and Hong Kong.

The high-stakes encounter between Pakistan and India is scheduled to take place on September 14 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.

Addressing the media during a press conference in the provincial capital, Aqib Javed commented on the much-anticipated match between India and Pakistan.

Follow us on our Official WhatsApp channel

“Pakistan’s T20 team can beat India. India-Pakistan matches are always huge, and everyone is aware of this. I believe this 17-member squad is capable of defeating any team. We shouldn’t put pressure on them, but I am very hopeful,” he stated.

It is worth mentioning that Pakistan has announced a 17-member squad for the Asia Cup 2025 and the Tri-Series against Afghanistan and the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

Salman Ali Agha will captain the team, which includes experienced players such as Fakhar Zaman, Shaheen Shah Afridi, and Haris Rauf.

Additionally, young talents Saim Ayub, Khushdil Shah, and Hussain Talat have also been selected for the lineup.

Meanwhile, the ace duo of Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan have not been selected in the Pakistan squad.

Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan’s last T20I appearance came in December 2024 against South Africa.

Pakistan squad for the UAE tri-series and Asia Cup

Salman Agha (capt), Abrar Ahmed, Faheem Ashraf, Fakhar Zaman, Haris Rauf, Hasan Ali, Hasan Nawaz, Hussain Talat, Khushdil Shah, Mohammad Haris (wk), Mohammad Nawaz, Mohammad Wasim, Sahibzada Farhan, Saim Ayub, Salman Mirza, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Sufyan Moqim

READ: Aqib Javed explains Babar, Rizwan’s exclusion from Pakistan’s T20I squad

Aqib Javed explains Babar, Rizwan’s exclusion from Pakistan’s T20I squad

LAHORE: Pakistan team selector and former pacer Aqib Javed has shared his thoughts on the exclusion of the experienced duo of Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan from the national T20I squad.

Addressing the questions regarding squad selection for the forthcoming Tri-Series and Asia Cup 2025, Aqib, alongside Pakistan head coach Mike Hesson, highlighted key aspects of the 17-member squad.

The ace duo of Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan have not been selected in the Pakistan squad. Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan’s last T20I appearance came in December 2024 against South Africa.

Aqib Javed stated that there is no full stop for any player, and there are ample opportunities for Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan to perform and secure their place in the team.

“In T20 cricket, two factors are crucial: your ability to score runs and your strike rate, according to the match situation and environment. That is what we always consider,” he told reporters.

The selector highlighted Pakistan’s T20I format top order, emphasizing recent performances amid the exclusion of Babar Azam.

Follow us on our Official WhatsApp channel

“It’s not that we are completely sidelining them. The current choices reflect how a player develops. I’ve given examples of Sahibzada Farhan, Saim, and Fakhar. Sahibzada made a comeback, Saim initially struggled but later created an impact,” he stated.

“We can’t say that we are writing them off, and at this time, we have players who have performed well.

So, no one can put a full stop on any player; there are opportunities, they are getting contracts in the Big Bash, there is the PSL, the player who performs will play, and he should play,” he added.

Aqib Javed mentioned the performances of the Pakistan Shaheens players and the opportunities available for emerging players.

“Our top players have just completed a camp at the NCA,” the 53-year-old said.

He further emphasized the team’s strengths while explaining the selection dynamics.

“Mohammad Wasim Jr. was sent there [Pakistan Shaheens] and he is getting fitter and bowling well, so he has been included in the squad,” he said. “You have limited slots— if you have players like Saim [Ayub], Fakhar [Zaman], and Sahibzada [Farhan], you can only select 17.”

“Wherever there is opportunity, it will be utilised. The good thing is that our options are improving. Players like Yasir[Khan] [Mohammad] Naeem, and [Khawaja] Nafay give us better choices, and it is a good sign,” Aqib Javed concluded.

READ: Pakistan name squad for Tri-Series and Asia Cup 2025

Aqib Javed opens up on conversations with Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan

LAHORE: Aqib Javed, the director of the High Performance Centre, has opened up on his recent conversations with senior batters Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan during the Skills Development Camp.

While speaking to the media on the final day of the camp, Aqib revealed that honest feedback was shared with both star players on how to raise their game.

He further stated that the focus wasn’t just on technical work, but also on clarity and self-assessment.

“We worked with both Babar and Rizwan and had honest discussions with them on how to enhance their game,” Aaqib said.

“You can’t fix everything in six days, but you can certainly point out areas that need work and get players thinking about where they stand.”

Aqib Javed explained that the initial focus was on helping players build connections with new coaches, while the latter stages catered to preparations for the Shaheens’ upcoming tour of Australia and the South Africa Test series.

“This was about keeping players engaged in the off-season, maintaining intensity, and getting them used to early morning routines again. Camps like this are essential if we want our players ready for the challenges ahead,” he said.

Follow us on our Official WhatsApp channel

He also provided updates on key pacers Naseem Shah and Mohammad Wasim Jr., confirming that both have recovered from injuries and bowled regularly during the camp.

“Naseem had been struggling earlier, but now he’s back bowling full tilt. Wasim Jr. has also returned to rhythm,” he added.

When asked about the team’s overall preparation for major assignments like the ACC Asia Cup 2025 and the ICC T20 World Cup 2026, he stated that Pakistan needs to aim for high-scoring, aggressive cricket.

“To win in modern-day white-ball cricket, you need to go past 200 regularly. We’re not looking at seniority—we’re looking at who fits the role best,” he said.

With two international series and a packed calendar ahead, Aqib reiterated that no spot is guaranteed and performance will be the only criterion.

“This camp was the beginning,” he concluded. “Now the real test is how much the players apply what they’ve been told.”

READ: Pakistan crowned champions of Asian Youth Girls Netball Championship 2025

Aqib Javed drops major hint on Babar Azam’s T20 future

LAHORE: The director of the national high-performance centre (NHPC) Aqib Javed has shed light on the inclusion of Pakistan’s ace batter Babar Azam in the national T20 team.

Speaking to the media in Punjab’s capital, Aqib linked Babar Azam return to the Pakistan team with performance, noting that any player who performs could return to the side.

“Whether it’s Babar or any other player, the game is open to everyone. If Babar or anyone else performs well, they will earn their place, and anyone can move up through performance,” he said.

He further added that players are smart enough to understand their places in certain formats, and they must ensure that they are well-prepared for various hurdles.

“Players are aware of which format they fit into. There are numerous challenges for them, and they must be prepared to face them.”

Follow us on our Official WhatsApp channel

The former coach spoke about Pakistan’s ODI captain, Mohammad Rizwan, stating that they have worked together and dismissed any conflicts between them.

Ahead of the new ICC World Test Championship (WTC)cycle, Aqib Javed announced the commencement of white and red-ball training camps.

“Coach Mike Hesson feels the need to work with this larger group. A white-ball camp will also be held in July, so white-ball cricketers are included in this larger camp.

“After the larger group, we will have separate camps for white-ball and red-ball formats. The red-ball camp will help us in the series against South Africa,” he said.

Along with camps, Aqib announced the revival of high-performance centres.

“There will be a women’s high-performance centre at the Karachi academy. The Sialkot academy will focus on Under-13 players, Faisalabad on Under-17 players, and Multan on Under-19 players. The National Cricket Academy will work with national-level players,” Aqib Javed concluded.

READ: Aqib Javed clears the air on rift with Mohammad Rizwan

Aqib Javed clears the air on rift with Mohammad Rizwan

LAHORE: Aqib Javed, director of the national high-performance centre (NHPC), has downplayed rumours of a disagreement with Pakistan’s ODI captain Mohammad Rizwan during his coaching stint.

While addressing the media here at the Lahore City Cricket Association Ground
(LCCA) Aqib addressed the question regarding the captain’s authority in the Pakistan team.

“All around the world, decisions are made collaboratively, whether it’s our captain or any other team’s,” he said.

“I never had any disagreements with Rizwan, because you make decisions together with your skipper. I can’t recall any instance where we weren’t on the same page,” Aqib told reporters.

It is pertinent to mention that, following the hosts Pakistan team’s early exit from the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, reports emerged of an internal rift between Mohammad Rizwan and head coach Aqib Javed over the key selection decisions.

Follow us on our Official WhatsApp channel

Addressing the question regarding Pakistan’s prospects in the upcoming ICC World Test Championship (WTC) cycle, Aqib highlighted the importance of process and continuation in national cricket.

“Process should continue, we halt the process in between. If you recall the early 2000s, you had numerous players because of the system. If the system continues like this, then Pakistan will have many positives in this Test championship cycle,” he said.

The former pacer also pinpointed a time frame for improvement in Pakistan cricket, stating that there will be noticeable changes in the national cricket.

“In six months, there will be visible improvement and change at every level. We will see changes in the system and among male and female cricketers.

“Just like in the past, we will bring development back into the academies. We are setting up a biomechanics lab in the academy and upgrading all facilities,” said Aqib Javed.

READ: Sam Billings hails Babar Azam as ‘king’ ahead of BBL debut

PCB appoints Aqib Javed to key position

LAHORE: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) on Tuesday announced the appointment of former Test fast bowler Aqib Javed as the Director High-Performance.

Javed recently served as Pakistan’s interim head coach for all formats until the tour of New Zealand in April.

He was initially appointed as the interim head coach for white-ball formats, but was also given responsibilities for the red-ball side during the tour of South Africa.

“To strengthen our cricket infrastructure, we are pleased to welcome Aqib Javed as the Director of High Performance,” said PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi.

“His appointment, alongside Mike Hesson as the white-ball Head Coach, marks a significant step forward in our strategic vision for Pakistan Cricket.

“Together, their expertise and leadership will play a pivotal role in the development, evolution and success of our national setup.”

Follow us on our Official WhatsApp channel

It’s worth noting that Aqib Javed represented Pakistan in 22 Tests and 163 ODIs from 1988 to 1998.

In addition to his recent role as the interim head coach of the Pakistan men’s cricket team, he previously served as the bowling coach during Pakistan’s successful campaign in the ICC T20 World Cup in 2009.

Last year, he worked with the Sri Lanka men’s team as their bowling coach.

Before that, he oversaw the United Arab Emirates (UAE) as they earned ODI status and qualified for the ICC World Cup 2015 in Australia during his tenure as head coach.

Furthermore, he was the coach of Pakistan’s Under-19 team when they won the U19 World Cup in 2004.

READ: Mike Hesson appointed as white-ball head coach of Pakistan