Are Babar and Afridi Back? Pakistan Unveils T20 WC Squad!
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Synopsis
Pakistan has officially announced its squad for the ICC T20 World Cup, with Babar Azam and Shaheen Shah Afridi making a comeback. Led by Salman Agha, the team aims to shine in the tournament co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka. Will the return of these stars elevate Pakistan's chances in the world stage?
Key Takeaways
- Babar Azam and Shaheen Shah Afridi return to bolster the squad.
- The squad is led by Salman Agha.
- Haris Rauf's exclusion raises eyebrows despite his Big Bash success.
- Fresh talents have been included, enhancing the team's depth.
- Pakistan starts their campaign against the Netherlands on February 7.
Lahore, Jan 25 (NationPress) On Sunday, Pakistan revealed its squad for the ICC T20 World Cup, led by Salman Agha, set to take place in India and Sri Lanka starting February 7. The experienced pair of Babar Azam and pace ace Shaheen Shah Afridi are making their much-anticipated return.
Having recently become the all-time leading run-scorer in Men’s T20 internationals, Babar Azam brings invaluable experience to the batting order. In contrast, Haris Rauf, who has been impressive in the current Big Bash League with 20 wickets in just 11 matches, has unfortunately been left out of the 15-man selection.
First-time selections include Skipper Agha, Faheem Ashraf, Khawaja Mohammad Nafay, Mohammad Salman Mirza, Sahibzada Farhan, and Usman Tariq. Meanwhile, veterans such as Abrar Ahmed, Babar Azam, Fakhar Zaman, Mohammad Nawaz, Naseem Shah, Saim Ayub, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Shadab Khan, and Usman Khan have prior experience in at least one edition of this major tournament since 2021.
Pakistan's batting arsenal is robust, featuring talents like Fakhar Zaman, Saim Ayub, and Sahibzada Farhan. With Rauf absent, the team will depend on Afridi and Naseem Shah to lead the bowling attack.
The squad is further strengthened by versatile all-rounders such as Faheem Ashraf, Shadab Khan, and Mohammad Nawaz, who offer depth with both bat and ball.
The 2009 champions are placed in Group A alongside co-hosts and reigning champions India, along with The Netherlands, The USA, and Namibia. They will commence their tournament journey against The Netherlands on February 7 at the Sinhalese Sports Club (SSC) Ground in Colombo.
The squad announcement follows a statement from PCB chief Mohsin Naqvi, indicating that discussions with the government would precede any final confirmation regarding their T20 World Cup involvement.
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 (wk), Usman Tariq.
Point of View
We recognize the significance of Babar Azam and Shaheen Shah Afridi's return to the Pakistan squad for the T20 World Cup. This strategic move not only enhances the team's experience but also builds confidence among fans. We support our national team in their quest for success on this prestigious platform.
NationPress
25/01/2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is leading the Pakistan squad in the T20 World Cup?
The Pakistan squad for the T20 World Cup is being led by Salman Agha.
Why was Haris Rauf left out of the squad?
Despite his impressive performance in the Big Bash League, Haris Rauf was omitted from the 15-man squad.
When does Pakistan's T20 World Cup campaign start?
Pakistan's T20 World Cup campaign begins on February 7 against the Netherlands.
Where will the T20 World Cup be held?
The T20 World Cup will be co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka.
Which teams are in Pakistan's group for the T20 World Cup?
Pakistan is in Group A with India, the Netherlands, the USA, and Namibia.
