Top-order batter Abdullah Shafique has also missed the cut, paving the way for Babar to secure one of the top-order roles.

Veteran Fakhar Zaman is in the mix, having played a monumental role in the 2017 Champions Trophy final. He scored a maiden ODI ton (114 off 106 deliveries) at The Oval, London, as Pakistan beat India by 180 runs to claim the silverware. Also recalled are Faheem Ashraf, Khushdil Shah, and Saud Shakeel.

“Fakhar’s opening partner could be either Babar Azam or Saud Shakeel, depending on various factors such as conditions, opposition and match strategy,” Shafiq said.

“Both players are highly capable at the top of the order, with Babar being particularly seasoned in the role, regularly opening in T20Is and also excelling in the Cape Town Test by scoring two half-centuries in Saim Ayub’s absence.”

The same squad will feature in the tri-series against South Africa and New Zealand in the leadup to the Champions Trophy.

Aaqib Javed will continue his role as Interim Coach, stepping in after Gary Kirsten’s departure last October.