Pakistan Announce T20 World Cup 2026 Squad: Pakistan have unveiled a power-packed 15-member squad for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, and the headline is clear—experience meets firepower.
With batting superstar Babar Azam confirmed in the lineup and pace sensations Shaheen Shah Afridi and Naseem Shah leading the bowling attack, Pakistan look determined to mount a serious title challenge.
The tournament, set to begin on February 7 across India and Sri Lanka, presents a golden opportunity for the 2009 champions to reclaim global T20 glory.
Babar Azam’s Return Strengthens the Core
The biggest boost for Pakistan is the presence of Babar Azam, one of modern cricket’s most consistent batters. Recently becoming the all-time leading run-scorer in Men’s T20Is, Babar brings not just class but unmatched composure under pressure.
His ability to anchor the innings while maintaining a healthy strike rate gives Pakistan stability at the top. In high-stakes tournaments like the T20 World Cup, that reliability is priceless.
Alongside him, aggressive stroke-makers like Fakhar Zaman, Saim Ayub, and Usman Khan offer explosive options, ensuring Pakistan can shift gears quickly.
Salman Agha to Lead a Balanced Side
Pakistan have placed leadership responsibilities on Salman Ali Agha, who will captain the side. His calm mindset and tactical awareness make him a strong choice to guide a squad filled with both youth and experience.
The squad composition reflects balance — specialist batters, dynamic all-rounders, and a lethal bowling unit capable of dominating in subcontinent conditions.
Pace Power: Shaheen and Naseem Lead the Charge
In the absence of Haris Rauf, Pakistan’s pace attack will revolve around two proven match-winners — Shaheen Shah Afridi and Naseem Shah.
Shaheen’s ability to strike with the new ball and deliver in the death overs makes him a constant threat. Meanwhile, Naseem’s raw pace and improving control provide the perfect support.
Spin duties will be handled by mystery spinner Abrar Ahmed and leg-spinning all-rounder Shadab Khan, giving Pakistan variety in the middle overs.
All-Round Depth a Key Advantage
Pakistan’s squad stands out for its all-round strength. Faheem Ashraf, Shadab Khan, and Mohammad Nawaz provide flexibility with both bat and ball.
These players allow Pakistan to adapt to match situations — whether stabilizing after early wickets or accelerating late in the innings. Their presence also gives the captain multiple bowling combinations to counter different opponents.
Behind the stumps, Khawaja Mohammad Nafay and Sahibzada Farhan offer wicketkeeping options along with valuable batting depth.
Group A Challenge Awaits
Pakistan find themselves in a competitive Group A, alongside:
- India (co-hosts and defending champions)
- Netherlands
- USA
- Namibia
The campaign begins against the Netherlands on February 7 in Colombo, followed by fixtures against the USA, arch-rivals India, and Namibia.
Pakistan’s Group Fixtures:
- vs Netherlands – February 7, Colombo
- vs USA – February 10, Colombo
- vs. India—February 15, Colombo
- vs. Namibia—February 18, Colombo
The clash against India is expected to be one of the most watched matches of the tournament
Pakistan squad: Salman Ali Agha (captain), Abrar Ahmed, Babar Azam, Faheem Ashraf, Fakhar Zaman, Khawaja Mohammad Nafay (wk), Mohammad Nawaz, Mohammad Salman Mirza, Naseem Shah, Sahibzada Farhan (wk), Saim Ayub, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Shadab Khan, Usman Khan, Usman Tariq..
Title Hopes Alive
Pakistan’s squad blends experience, youth, and versatility — three ingredients essential for T20 success. With Babar Azam’s class, Shaheen Afridi’s wicket-taking ability, and a strong group of all-rounders, the team has the tools needed to go deep into the tournament.
If the batting fires consistently and the pace attack delivers early breakthroughs, Pakistan could well be on course to lift their second T20 World Cup trophy.
The road to glory starts in Colombo—and all eyes will be on the men in green.
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