Pakistan’s T20 World Cup 2026 Squad: Probables Shortlisted, Captain & Schedule Revealed
The countdown to the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 has officially begun, and the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is shifting into high gear. With the mega-event just weeks away, sources from the PCB headquarters in Lahore confirm that the national selection committee, in consultation with the team management, has shortlisted the probable squad that will carry the nation’s hopes in Sri Lanka and India.
Following the conclusion of a hard-fought series in Sri Lanka, the focus now turns to finalizing the 15 gladiators who will don the green jersey. With white-ball head coach Mike Hesson set to arrive in Lahore this week, the final blueprint for Pakistan’s campaign—and the preceding home series against Australia—is about to be stamped.
The Selection Meeting: Deadline and Decisions
The coming week is critical for Pakistan cricket. The national squad, fresh off their assignment in Sri Lanka, returns home today, marking the beginning of the final deliberation phase.
According to insider reports, a preliminary list of players has already been submitted to the International Cricket Council (ICC) to meet administrative deadlines. However, the ICC allows member boards to make changes to their squads without requiring special approval until January 31, 2026. This gives the PCB a small window to tweak the combination based on form and fitness.
The final meeting will involve:
- Mohsin Naqvi (PCB Chairman)
- Mike Hesson (Head Coach)
- Salman Ali Agha (Captain)
- The National Selection Committee
The objective is clear: assemble a squad capable of repeating the glory of 2009.
The Rumored Squad: A Blend of Fire and Ice
The shortlisted names suggest a strategy built on continuity and explosive power. Salman Ali Agha, who has taken over the reins of the T20 side, is expected to lead a unit that features former captain Babar Azam and a pace attack that is the envy of the world.
Here is the likely makeup of the 15-member squad:
The Batting Core
- Salman Ali Agha (Captain): The leader of the pack, known for his calm temperament and ability to anchor the innings.
- Babar Azam: Free from the burden of captaincy, Babar is expected to be the batting lynchpin at the top of the order.
- Fakhar Zaman: The left-handed dynamo remains Pakistan’s go-to man for powerplays and aggressive starts.
- Saim Ayub: The stylish opener offers a modern T20 approach with his “no-look” shots and aggressive intent.
- Sahibzada Farhan: A consistent domestic performer who provides solidity to the top order.
- Khawaja Nafay: The exciting youngster brings raw power and innovation, making him a wildcard entry for the middle order.
- Usman Khan: A versatile batter who can float in the order and keep wickets if required.
The All-Rounders
- Shadab Khan: Despite recent form fluctuations, Shadab’s experience and fielding make him a vital cog in the wheel.
- Mohammad Nawaz: The left-arm spinner offers crucial match-ups against right-handers and depth in batting.
- Faheem Ashraf: The pace-bowling all-rounder provides balance, allowing Pakistan to play deep batting lineups.
The Bowling Attack
- Shaheen Shah Afridi: The leader of the attack. His first-over spells will be crucial in Sri Lankan conditions.
- Naseem Shah: With pace and swing, Naseem complements Shaheen perfectly.
- Haris Rauf: The death-over specialist remains Pakistan’s best bet to stifle runs in the final overs.
- Abrar Ahmed: The mystery spinner is Pakistan’s X-factor, expected to thrive on the turning tracks of Colombo.
- Salman Mirza: A rising pacer who has impressed selectors with his discipline.
The Reserve List
The PCB is leaving nothing to chance, keeping three capable players on standby:
- Mohammad Wasim Jr: High-quality pace backup.
- Abdul Samad: An explosive striking option.
- Usman Tariq: A mystery spin option.
The Final Warm-Up: Australia Tour of Pakistan
Before flying out for the World Cup, Pakistan will host Australia for a high-voltage three-match T20I series. This series serves as the ultimate dress rehearsal, allowing the management to test their combinations against world-class opposition.
Proposed Schedule: The PCB has shared draft itineraries with Cricket Australia, proposing a tight schedule to maximize preparation time.
- Arrival of Australia: January 26 or 27
- 1st T20I: January 29
- 2nd T20I: January 31
- 3rd T20I: February 1
- Departure: February 2 or 3
This series will likely be played in Lahore or Rawalpindi (venues to be confirmed), providing the players with high-intensity match practice just days before the World Cup begins.
World Cup Roadmap: The Challenge in Colombo
Pakistan finds itself in Group A, and the schedule heavily favors them in terms of logistics. Unlike other teams traveling across borders, Pakistan will play all their group stage matches in Sri Lanka, specifically in Colombo. This is a massive advantage given their recent tour of the island nation.
Pakistan’s T20 World Cup 2026 Fixtures:
- vs Netherlands: February 7 (Colombo) – A tricky opener against a disciplined Associate nation.
- vs USA: February 10 (Colombo) – A match Pakistan will be expected to dominate.
- vs India: February 15 (Colombo) – The Mother of All Battles. This Sunday blockbuster will likely decide the group topper.
- vs Namibia: February 18 (Colombo) – The final group game to seal Super Eight qualification.
If Pakistan qualifies for the Super Eight, they will continue to play in Sri Lanka (Colombo and Kandy), avoiding the travel fatigue of moving to Indian venues.
Analysis: Can This Squad Bring the Trophy Home?
The rumored squad strikes a balance between experienced campaigners and youthful exuberance. The inclusion of Abrar Ahmed is a strategic masterstroke for Sri Lankan conditions, where spin will play a dominant role. Furthermore, the pace trio of Shaheen, Naseem, and Rauf remains one of the most lethal in world cricket.
The key will be the form of the middle order. With Salman Ali Agha leading and Babar Azam anchoring, the onus will be on power-hitters like Khawaja Nafay and Fakhar Zaman to ensure Pakistan posts imposing totals.
As Head Coach Mike Hesson lands in Lahore this week, the pieces of the puzzle are falling into place. The fans are ready, the squad is nearly set, and the stage is prepared for Pakistan to chase history once again.
