Babar Azam injured hours before PSL 2025 opener? Peshawar Zalmi Captain caught limping off the field during training session

PSL 2025: The buzz ahead of Pakistan Super League 2025 suffered an unexpected jolt as Peshawar Zalmi captain Babar Azam was seen limping off the field during a training session, just days before their opening fixture against Quetta Gladiators.

The footage, which went viral on social media, sparked concern among fans and pundits alike, casting uncertainty over the star batter's availability for the start of the season.

While there is no official statement from the Peshawar Zalmi management regarding the extent of Babar's injury, the visuals show him visibly in discomfort as he walked off the field during an intense net session on Wednesday. Given his stature and the central role he plays for Zalmi both as captain and their top-order lynchpin, even the slightest injury raises alarm bells.

Peshawar Zalmi are scheduled to begin their campaign on April 12 at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium. Babar, who was recently omitted from Pakistan's T20I squad against New Zealand, is believed to be eyeing the PSL to rediscover form and rhythm ahead of a packed international calendar. His absence, even if short-term, could disrupt Zalmi's plans for the opening games.

In a bit of good news for the franchise, young opener Saim Ayub has returned to full fitness. The 21-year-old, who was sidelined with a fractured ankle suffered during Pakistan's Test tour of South Africa earlier this year, rejoined the Peshawar Zalmi camp earlier this week.

The left-hander had been a vital cog in Pakistan's white-ball setup before his injury and is expected to partner Babar at the top of the order - if the skipper is declared fit in time.

Saim's return offers some relief to Zalmi's think-tank, especially with their overseas all-rounder Corbin Bosch withdrawing from the tournament. Bosch, who was initially signed in the Diamond category, opted to play in the Indian Premier League instead, joining the Mumbai Indians as a replacement for the injured Lizaad Williams. The decision, which drew mixed reactions, was explained by Bosch as a purely professional call to further his career.

The 2025 edition of the PSL marks the first time the league will run concurrently with the Indian Premier League, adding layers of competition - both on the field and in the global cricket broadcasting space. The scheduling clash has already led to some overseas withdrawals, and Bosch's high-profile exit is likely to be a point of discussion moving forward.

As for Zalmi, all eyes will remain on Babar Azam's recovery status ahead of their first game. Whether the franchise is forced to reshuffle its plans or gets its captain back just in time could well shape the early momentum of their campaign.

For now, Zalmi fans are hoping the limping exit was more precautionary than serious - but until official clarity arrives, the suspense over Babar's participation continues to dominate PSL 2025's early headlines.