Pakistan Unveil 16-Member Squad for T20I Series Against Australia in Lahore
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has officially announced a 16-member squad for the highly anticipated three-match T20 International series against Australia, scheduled to be played at the historic Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore. The series will run from 29 January to 1 February 2026, with all matches starting at 4:00 PM Pakistan Standard Time (PKT).
This series is being seen as a crucial step in Pakistan’s preparations for upcoming global tournaments and also marks another significant moment for international cricket returning to Pakistan.
Babar Azam and Shaheen Afridi Make Strong Comeback
One of the biggest highlights of the squad announcement is the return of Babar Azam and Shaheen Shah Afridi to the T20I setup. Both senior players had missed Pakistan’s recent away series against Sri Lanka earlier this month, which raised questions among fans about their availability and form.
Their inclusion instantly strengthens Pakistan’s lineup:
- Babar Azam brings stability, experience, and world-class batting prowess at the top order.
- Shaheen Shah Afridi, Pakistan’s premier fast bowler, adds pace, swing, and match-winning ability with the new ball.
Their comeback has been widely welcomed by cricket fans across the country.
Salman Ali Agha to Lead the Side
All-rounder Salman Ali Agha has been named captain of the T20I squad. The decision signals PCB’s confidence in his leadership skills and calm on-field temperament. Salman has impressed in recent international outings and is expected to play a key role both as a batter and a leader.
With experienced players like Babar Azam, Shadab Khan, and Shaheen Afridi around him, Salman will have strong support in guiding the team against a tough Australian side.
Strong Spin Attack for Lahore Conditions
Keeping Lahore’s conditions in mind, Pakistan has selected a well-balanced spin bowling unit. Shadab Khan, who is continuing his comeback journey, remains a vital part of the squad.
He will be joined by:
- Abrar Ahmed
- Mohammad Nawaz
- Usman Tariq
This spin trio, combined with Shadab’s all-round skills, gives Pakistan multiple bowling options, especially in middle overs where matches are often decided.
Pace Battery Packed with Firepower
Pakistan’s fast bowling attack once again looks lethal. Alongside Shaheen Afridi, the squad features:
- Naseem Shah
- Mohammad Wasim Jr
- Faheem Ashraf
This pace unit offers a mix of raw speed, swing, and death-over expertise, making Pakistan a dangerous opponent at home.
Multiple Wicketkeeping Options Included
To provide flexibility, the selectors have opted for three wicketkeeping options:
- Usman Khan (wk)
- Sahibzada Farhan (wk)
- Khawaja Mohammad Nafay (wk)
This depth allows team management to rotate players based on form, pitch conditions, and match strategy.
Full Pakistan Squad for T20I Series vs Australia
16-Member Squad:
- Salman Ali Agha (Captain)
- Abrar Ahmed
- Babar Azam
- Faheem Ashraf
- Fakhar Zaman
- Khawaja Mohammad Nafay (wk)
- Mohammad Nawaz
- Mohammad Salman Mirza
- Mohammad Wasim Jr
- Naseem Shah
- Sahibzada Farhan (wk)
- Saim Ayub
- Shaheen Shah Afridi
- Shadab Khan
- Usman Khan (wk)
- Usman Tariq
Player Support Staff Announced
PCB has also confirmed a strong and experienced support staff for the series:
- Naveed Akram Cheema – Team Manager
- Mike Hesson – Head Coach
- Ashley Noffke – Bowling Coach
- Shane McDermott – Fielding Coach
- Hanif Malik – Batting Coach
- Cliffe Deacon – Physiotherapist
- Grant Luden – Strength & Conditioning Coach
- Talha Ejaz – Performance Analyst
- Syed Naeem Ahmed – Media Manager
- Lt. Col. (r) Usman Anwari – Security Manager
- Dr. Wajid Ali Rafai – Team Doctor
- Dr. Raheel Karim – Psychiatrist
- Muhammad Ehsan – Masseur
The presence of a dedicated mental health professional highlights PCB’s growing focus on player well-being.
Team Gathering and Preparation Schedule
Pakistan players and support staff are expected to assemble in Lahore on Saturday, 24 January, with full training sessions starting the following day. Practice sessions will focus on adapting to local conditions and finalizing playing combinations.
Australia’s Return to Pakistan for T20Is
Australia will arrive in Pakistan on Wednesday, 28 January, marking only their second T20I series on Pakistani soil. Their previous appearance in the format was a single T20I match in April 2022, also held at Gaddafi Stadium.
This series further strengthens cricketing ties between the two nations and reflects Pakistan’s successful efforts in hosting international teams safely.
T20I Series Schedule (Lahore)
All matches will be played at Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore:
1st T20I: Thursday, 29 January 2026 – 4:00 PM PKT
2nd T20I: Saturday, 31 January 2026 – 4:00 PM PKT
3rd T20I: Sunday, 1 February 2026 – 4:00 PM PKT
Why This Series Is Important for Pakistan
This T20I series is not just about winning matches. It plays a vital role in:
- Testing new leadership under Salman Ali Agha
- Reintegrating senior players like Babar and Shaheen
- Preparing for upcoming ICC tournaments
- Giving home fans high-quality international cricket
A strong performance against Australia could boost Pakistan’s confidence and rankings.
Also read:ICC upholds current match schedule for Men’s T20 World Cup 2026
FAQs – Pakistan vs Australia T20I Series 2026
Q1: Where will Pakistan vs Australia T20I matches be played?
All three matches will be played at Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore.
Q2: Who is captaining Pakistan in this series?
Salman Ali Agha has been named captain of the T20I squad.
Q3: What time do the matches start?
Each match will begin at 4:00 PM Pakistan Standard Time (PKT).
Q4: Is Babar Azam included in the squad?
Yes, Babar Azam has returned to the T20I squad after missing the Sri Lanka series.
Q5: How many T20Is will be played in this series?
A total of three T20 International matches will be played.
Also read:Pakistan and India to Face Each Other Twice on 15 February
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