Former Pakistan fast bowler urges Babar and Rizwan to follow Kohli's example after Asia Cup defeat: 'Consider retirement'

Pakistan greats Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan have not been included in the Asia Cup 2025 squad, indicating a clear decision by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to move on from the two experienced batsmen in the shortest format. Babar and Rizwan have not played a single T20I in 2025. On this note, former Pakistan fast bowler Tanvir Ahmed has urged Babar and Rizwan to announce their retirement if they do not feel respected by the board. He also used Virat Kohli's Test retirement as an example.

My request, Babar Azam and Rizwan, is that if you feel that you are not respected, then retire from international cricket.

We have the example of Virat Kohli. Honor is in your own hands.

Babar and Rizwan have come under heavy criticism after Pakistan's exit from the T20 World Cup 2024 in the group stage.

Kohli had announced his retirement from Test cricket earlier this year, before India's five-match series against England. Reports have said that Kohli is no longer a guaranteed starter for India in Tests.

However, despite Tanvir suggesting Babar and Rizwan follow Kohli's example, there is no evidence that Kohli retired from Tests after feeling disrespected.

Kohli remains a key part of India's ODI squad, scoring 218 runs on his way to the Champions Trophy 2025 title earlier this year. Kohli also scored a century against Pakistan during the tournament, successfully chasing runs in Kohli's signature style.

Babar and Rizwan, on the other hand, have not been in good form. The pair have failed to impress as Pakistan recently suffered their first ODI series defeat in 34 years at the hands of the West Indies.