LAHORE: Former Pakistan captain Babar Azam has left the ongoing Skills Development Camp at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Lahore after just two days, according to sources in the local media.
Babar, who was part of the first batch of players invited to the Pakistan Cricket Board’s special off-season training program, informed the PCB and camp management of his pre-scheduled international commitments and departed with official permission, sources confirmed.
The camp, launched by the PCB as a strategic initiative to help national cricketers refine their skills during a relatively quiet international window, was seen as a key opportunity for players—especially those looking to cement or reclaim their positions across formats. Babar’s inclusion was seen as significant, not only for his own form but also as a potential mentor to younger squad members.
However, his early exit and the PCB’s willingness to accommodate his absence have fueled speculation that Babar may be facing an extended period out of the T20I setup, with no immediate ODI or Test matches lined up for Pakistan.
Camp Schedule and Implications
The first phase of the Skills Development Camp runs until June 21, after which a second batch of 16 players will train from June 23 to 28. A third group will then participate from June 30 to July 5. The PCB is expected to announce the T20I squad for upcoming series against Bangladesh and West Indies after the final phase.
While Babar’s early departure may not completely rule him out of future selections, it does suggest that he is currently not central to the PCB’s immediate T20I plans. As the team transitions under a new coaching regime, full participation in such development programs could play a crucial role in determining the future of senior players like Babar.
For now, his absence leaves questions about where he stands in Pakistan’s evolving cricket roadmap—questions that may only be answered once the final squads are announced later this summer.
