Kusal Mendis praises Babar Azam despite T20I squad omission

Sri Lanka batter Kusal Mendis has praised Pakistan’s star batter Babar Azam, describing him as a wonderful and very good player despite his omission from Pakistan’s T20I squad for the upcoming series against Sri Lanka.

During a press conference, Mendis was asked about Babar’s absence from the Pakistan squad for the three-match T20I series. In response, the Sri Lankan batter spoke highly of Babar’s abilities and highlighted his experience of playing alongside him in the HBL PSL 11.

Mendis said he had the chance to bat with Babar during the previous PSL season, describing it as a very good experience.

The Sri Lankan batter’s comments come after Babar was left out of Pakistan’s T20I squad for the home series against Sri Lanka, with Sahibzada Farhan named as captain of the young Pakistan side.

Babar remains one of Pakistan’s most prominent batters across formats, and Mendis’ remarks underlined the respect he continues to command among international players.

Pakistan and Sri Lanka are set to face each other in a three-match T20I series, with the hosts looking to build a new-look side while Sri Lanka prepare for the challenge against Pakistan on home soil.