Who Are the Returning Stars in the PCB's White-Ball Squads?
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Synopsis
The Pakistan Cricket Board has unveiled its T20I and ODI squads for the upcoming white-ball series against South Africa, Sri Lanka, and a tri-series including Zimbabwe. Key players like Babar Azam and Naseem Shah are making their returns, signaling a strong lineup. Fans can expect thrilling matches as preparations for the T20 World Cup 2026 intensify!
Key Takeaways
- Babar Azam and Naseem Shah return to the squad.
- The series includes matches against South Africa and Sri Lanka.
- Salman Ali Agha continues as T20I captain.
- The inclusion of Usman Tariq marks his debut.
- The series serves as a key preparation for the T20 World Cup 2026.
Lahore, Oct 23 (NationPress) The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has revealed the 15-member T20I and 16-man ODI squads for the upcoming white-ball series against South Africa, Sri Lanka, and a tri-series featuring Zimbabwe. This series marks the return of Babar Azam, Abdul Samad, and Naseem Shah to the team. Additionally, Faisal Akram, Haris Rauf, and Haseebullah are back for the ODIs, with Usman Tariq being the only uncapped player in the T20I lineup.
Babar, who last appeared in a T20I during the December 2024 series against South Africa in Centurion, had missed the series against Bangladesh, West Indies, and the Asia Cup 2025.
Salman Ali Agha continues as the T20I captain, while Shaheen Shah Afridi will lead the ODI squad for the first time.
Currently, Pakistan is engaged in a Test series at home against South Africa at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium. Following this, they will compete against the Proteas in a three-match T20I and ODI series before hosting Sri Lanka for another three-match ODI series.
Subsequently, a T20I tri-series involving Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and Zimbabwe will unfold as a preparation for the T20 World Cup 2026. Initially, Afghanistan was to participate as the third team but withdrew due to political issues.
The T20I matches between Pakistan and South Africa are scheduled in Rawalpindi and Lahore from October 28 to November 1, while the ODI series will occur at Iqbal Stadium in Faisalabad from November 4 to 8.
Post-ODIs, three additional ODIs against Sri Lanka at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium are planned from November 11 to 15. The T20I tri-series will commence from November 17 to 29, with matches held in various venues in Rawalpindi and Lahore.
T20I Squad:
Salman Ali Agha (captain), Abdul Samad, Abrar Ahmed, Babar Azam, Faheem Ashraf, Hasan Nawaz, Mohammad Nawaz, Mohammad Wasim Jnr, Mohammad Salman Mirza, Naseem Shah, Sahibzada Farhan, Saim Ayub, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Usman Khan (wicket-keeper), Usman Tariq
Reserves: Fakhar Zaman, Haris Rauf, Sufiyan Moqim
ODI Squad:
Shahen Shah Afridi (captain), Abrar Ahmed, Babar Azam, Faheem Ashraf, Faisal Akram, Fakhar Zaman, Haris Rauf, Haseebullah, Hasan Nawaz, Hussain Talat, Mohammad Nawaz, Mohammad Rizwan (wicket-keeper), Mohammad Wasim Jnr, Naseem Shah, Saim Ayub, Salman Ali Agha
Point of View
It's crucial to highlight that the PCB's announcement reflects a strategic move to strengthen the national team ahead of significant international fixtures. The inclusion of seasoned players like Babar Azam and Naseem Shah showcases the PCB's commitment to excellence. The nation stands united in support of our cricketing heroes as they prepare for the challenges ahead.
NationPress
23/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What teams will Pakistan face in the upcoming series?
Pakistan will compete against South Africa, Sri Lanka, and participate in a tri-series involving Zimbabwe.
Who is the captain of the T20I squad?
Salman Ali Agha has been retained as the captain of the T20I squad.
When will the T20I series take place?
The T20I series against South Africa is scheduled from October 28 to November 1.
Who are the uncapped players in the T20I squad?
Usman Tariq is the only uncapped player in the T20I squad.
What is the significance of this series for Pakistan?
This series is crucial for Pakistan as it serves as preparation for the T20 World Cup 2026.
