Pakistan’s cricket team could face a major shake-up ahead of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, as one of its leading fast bowlers — Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah, or Mohammad Wasim Jr — is expected to miss out on selection.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has already submitted a preliminary squad list to the ICC. However, changes can be made until January 31, with the official squad announcement expected shortly.
Probable Squad Members
Sources suggest the core lineup may include:
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Captain: Salman Ali Agha
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Batsmen: Sahibzada Farhan, Saim Ayub, Fakhar Zaman, Babar Azam
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All-Rounders & Bowlers: Shadab Khan, Faheem Ashraf, Mohammad Nawaz, Usman Khan, Abrar Ahmed
Fast-bowling contenders still under consideration are:
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Shaheen Afridi
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Naseem Shah
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Haris Rauf
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Salman Mirza
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Khawaja Nafay
Reserve players likely include Abdul Samad, Mohammad Wasim Jr, and Usman Tariq.
Tough Decisions for Team Management
With intense competition for pace bowling spots, the management must make a tough call, likely selecting only two out of Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah, and Wasim Jr. All three have been key performers in Pakistan’s recent pace attack, making the potential omission a critical decision ahead of the tournament.
T20 World Cup 2026 Schedule
Pakistan, the 2009 T20 World Cup champions, will begin their campaign in Colombo:
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Feb 7: vs Netherlands
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Feb 10: vs United States
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Feb 15: vs India (arch-rival clash)
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Feb 18: vs Namibia
All Group A matches will be played in Colombo, with Super Eight matches scheduled in Colombo and Kandy.
The final squad announcement will be closely watched by fans, as Pakistan aims to field a strong and balanced team to defend its T20 WC legacy.
