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As the Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2025 season approaches, Peshawar Zalmi‘s preparations have encountered a significant hurdle. Captain Babar Azam was observed limping off the field during a recent training session, raising concerns about his availability for the opening match against Quetta Gladiators on April 12 at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium. This development has sent ripples through the cricketing community, given Babar’s pivotal role in the team.
What happened during training?
During an intense net session on Wednesday, Babar appeared to experience discomfort, leading him to leave the field prematurely. Footage of the incident quickly circulated on social media, amplifying worries among fans and analysts. Currently, the Zalmi’s management has not released an official statement detailing the nature or severity of the injury, leaving supporters in suspense. Babar’s significance to Peshawar Zalmi cannot be overstated. As one of the world’s premier batters, his leadership and batting prowess are central to the team’s strategy. His recent form has been scrutinized, especially after being omitted from Pakistan‘s T20I squad against New Zealand. The PSL was viewed as a crucial platform for him to regain momentum ahead of a demanding international calendar. An injury at this juncture could disrupt both his aspirations and the team’s plans.
Here’s the video:
Babar Azam injured in net session @Usama7 pic.twitter.com/Cs0WpKK5Ys
— Muhammad Noman (@Nomancricket29) April 9, 2025
Also READ: Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2025: Complete squads of all six teams
Squad adjustments and player availability
In light of Babar’s uncertain status, the Zalmi might need to reconsider their lineup for the initial matches. The return of young opener Saim Ayub offers a silver lining. The 21-year-old left-hander had been sidelined due to a fractured ankle sustained during Pakistan’s Test tour of South Africa earlier this year. His rehabilitation under Pakistan’s trainer, Hanif Malik, has been closely monitored, and his readiness for the PSL remains a topic of interest. Saim’s potential partnership with Babar at the top of the order is highly anticipated, provided both are fit to play. Additionally, the team has bolstered its squad by signing Australian opener Mitchell Owen as a supplementary draft pick. This move comes amid uncertainties surrounding player availability and aims to ensure depth in the batting department.
Corbin Bosch’s withdrawal and its impact
Complicating matters further, overseas all-rounder Corbin Bosch has withdrawn from the tournament to participate in the Indian Premier League (IPL) with the Mumbai Indians, replacing the injured Lizaad Williams. Bosch’s decision, driven by professional considerations, leaves a gap in Zalmi’s lineup. The simultaneous scheduling of the PSL and IPL this year has intensified competition for international players, leading to such withdrawals and prompting teams to adapt swiftly. As the PSL 2025 draws near, all eyes will be on updates regarding Babar’s condition. Fans and stakeholders alike are hopeful that the discomfort he experienced was minor and that he will lead Peshawar Zalmi onto the field come April 12.
