From PSL to Pakistan: The Comebacks Changing the National Squad

We can say one thing with great certainty about Pakistan cricket: it carries plenty of uncertainty. Just as we were starting to think that the T20I selection process became easier to follow as a fan, the selectors confused everyone with their embrace – they selected no Babar Azam, no Mohammad Rizwan, and no Shaheen Shah Afridi, unbelievable, and that is no typo. The selection committee also added three other players coming back into the fold: Sahibzada Farhan, Hasan Ali, and Saim Ayub – it is a perfect mix of redemption, form, and most importantly of course is talent – and carrying and holding uncertainty as a part of your identity is what makes Pakistan cricket exciting and frustrating all at the same time.

1. Sahibzada Farhan’s Red-Hot PSL Form Makes a Loud Statement

If T20 cricket is all about form and impact, Sahibzada Farhan is ticking both boxes with a Sharpie. The Islamabad United opener is the most explosive batter in PSL 2025, leading the run charts with 394 runs off 255 balls for a staggering strike rate of 154.50. He’s piling on the runs and turning up the volume.

His call-up is not just well-deserved, it’s overdue. Farhan hasn’t played for Pakistan since December last year, and this PSL has demonstrated he is more than ready for an impressive return. With a century and two fifties already in this season, Farhan has been able to combine aggression with consistency, exactly what Pakistan needs at the top. More importantly, his unbothered approach sets him apart from the more cautious approach of Rizwan and Babar and could create a much more explosive opening partnership.

2. Hasan Ali: The Comeback King Just Won’t Quit

Say what you want about Hasan Ali; he cannot be written off. After being out of the way since May 2024, the Karachi Kings pacer returned and reminded everybody he is still relevant with 15 wickets (tied for second overall) in the PSL. Hasan’s fire, his roar, and his ability to take wickets are still alive.

While Hasan’s return is about more than starts, it’s about timing. Pakistan’s pace attack is missing this series, not only Shaheen Afridi but a surprising omission of Abbas Afridi; Hasan provides experience, energy, and someone who has been there, done that under pressure. He also adds some bite to a young attack, especially with Naseem Shah just coming back from injury and Haris Rauf yet to find his rhythm.

3. Saim Ayub: A Risky Bet or a Calculated Investment?

Now here’s the wild card. Saim Ayub has had a quiet PSL, with just 174 runs in ten innings at an underwhelming average of 17.40. But the selectors appear to think his talent supersedes his recent numbers. He is coming back from an injury that kept him out for months, and this could be about a long-term investment, rather than short-term metrics.

Saim is a dynamic and aggressive stroke-maker who can be extremely dangerous in T20s when he is in a rhythm. This team appears to be backing him to find that rhythm playing Bangladesh. The risk is clear, but if Saim’s timing is impeccable and he returns to peak form at the right time, it could produce high value. This player also has a high ceiling, and sometimes this is the perfect player to back first.

Will these comebacks be a success or will they wither under the pressure? Say what you will, but everyone will be tuning in. What do you think, are Pakistan finally including players based on current form, rather than just fame?

Disclaimer: This Exclusive News is based on the author’s understanding, analysis, and instinct. As you review this information, consider the points mentioned and form your own conclusions.

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