Not fully recovered, Pakistan’s top names Babar Azam and Fakhar Zaman still made it into the T20 World Cup lineup. Doubts grew when the PCB medical team raised concerns about hidden injuries brought into the tournament. Questions lingered long after the selection was announced.
Last week, during a media session, selection committee member Aaqib Javed flagged issues needing inquiry by the board. According to someone familiar with internal discussions, cited by PTI, Dr Javed Mughal – a specialist in athletic rehabilitation based in Britain – shared unease about Babar and Fakhar being ready physically for the major tournament. The expert took up role within PCB’s health team at the start of 2026, leading areas tied to movement science and player wellness.
Babar Azam stepping away from the National T20 Cup sparked questions about his fitness following the T20 World Cup. While returning, discomfort lingered. Fakhar faced much of the same. Medical checks gave him approval later that month – March 15 opened the door. Three games followed, one under bright lights at the final, representing Abbottabad Region.
“When Babar was examined his injury turned out to be more serious than initially diagnosed while Fakhar also has been struggling with the same problem for months now,” the source said.
Did the Pakistan team physio allow players to play with niggles?
Fitness checks cleared every player chosen, the medical group was told plainly by the selection team. Cliffe Deacon, working as Pakistan’s physio, gave the green light personally. Yet some claim he’s ignored minor hurts before, letting athletes compete despite risks. Close bonds with certain players may have played a role each time. Decisions like these raise quiet questions behind the scenes.
Things might turn tricky should those top athletes take part despite being less than ready even though they passed the fitness check. Right now Babar stays at the National Cricket Academy, recovering while doctors keep close watch. Come March 26 his presence is counted on for the Pakistan Super League when he returns as captain for Peshawar Zalmi.
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