Pakistan Announces Strong T20 Squad for Australia Series

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) recently unveiled the 16-member Pakistan T20 Squad set to face Australia. This highly anticipated three-match T20 International series will unfold at Lahore’s iconic Gaddafi Stadium, promising thrilling cricket action. Fans eagerly await the return of key players for these crucial encounters.

Key Dates and Anticipated Returns

The series kicks off on January 29, followed by matches on January 31 and February 1. All games are scheduled to begin at 4:00 PM Pakistan Standard Time. Consequently, supporters can plan their viewing schedules accordingly. Notably, former captain Babar Azam and star fast bowler Shaheen Shah Afridi are making their comeback to the T20I squad. They missed Pakistan’s recent series against Sri Lanka, which concluded in a 1-1 draw. Their inclusion significantly bolsters the team’s strength.

Furthermore, Salman Ali Agha will lead the side, demonstrating new leadership dynamics. Shadab Khan also continues his impressive return to form, expected to play a pivotal role. The spin attack looks formidable, featuring talents like Abrar Ahmed, Mohammad Nawaz, and Usman Tariq alongside Shadab. This diverse bowling lineup aims to challenge the Australian batsmen.

Meet the Pakistan T20 Squad

Here is the full 16-member Pakistan T20 Squad ready for the Australia series:

• Salman Ali Agha (Captain)
• Abrar Ahmed
• Babar Azam
• Faheem Ashraf
• Fakhar Zaman
• Khawaja Mohammad Nafay (Wicketkeeper)
• Mohammad Nawaz
• Mohammad Salman Mirza
• Mohammad Wasim Jr
• Naseem Shah
• Sahibzada Farhan (Wicketkeeper)
• Usman Khan (Wicketkeeper)
• Shaheen Shah Afridi
• Shadab Khan
• Saim Ayub
• Usman Tariq

Series Preparations and Australian Arrival

The squad, along with support personnel, will assemble in Lahore on Saturday, with intensive preparations commencing the very next day. Meanwhile, the Australian team is scheduled to arrive in Pakistan on Wednesday, January 28. This marks their second T20I series on Pakistani soil, a significant event for local cricket fans. Previously, Australia played a solitary T20I at Gaddafi Stadium in April 2022.

Strategic Preparation for ICC T20 World Cup 2026

Crucially, this series offers vital preparation for both teams ahead of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026. The prestigious tournament will take place in India and Sri Lanka from February 7 to March 8. Pakistan has been drawn into Group A, facing formidable opponents including India, the USA, the Netherlands, and Namibia. In contrast, Australia will compete in Group B alongside Sri Lanka, Ireland, Zimbabwe, and Oman. Both teams aim to fine-tune their strategies and combinations during this series.

Historical Context: Pakistan vs. Australia T20Is

This tour represents Australia’s third visit to Pakistan since their historic Test series in March–April 2022, followed by an ODI series and a one-off T20I. Additionally, Australia participated in three matches of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 in Pakistan. In their previous T20I encounter at Gaddafi Stadium on April 5, 2022, Australia secured a narrow three-wicket victory. Overall, these cricketing giants have clashed 28 times in T20 Internationals. Australia holds a slight edge with 14 wins, while Pakistan has triumphed in 12 matches. One game concluded in a tie, and another produced no result, highlighting the competitive nature of their rivalry.