Pakistan Recall Stars Babar, Shadab, Naseem for T20 World Cup; Await Government Clearance

Pakistan have named a revamped 15-man squad for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, recalling former captain Babar Azam, all-rounder Shadab Khan, and fast bowler Naseem Shah after their absence from last year’s Asia Cup squad.

However, the team’s participation in the tournament remains subject to government approval, a point stressed by head coach Aaqib Javed. “We are selectors, and our job is to pick the team… The government will decide on our participation,” Javed stated, echoing PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi’s earlier comments.

In a significant reshuffle, pacers Haris Rauf and Mohammad Wasim Jnr, along with Hasan Ali, Hussain Talat, and others, have been omitted. Salman Ali Agha, who led Pakistan in the Asia Cup, retains the captaincy and is among six players set for their maiden World Cup appearance, alongside Faheem Ashraf, Khawaja Mohammad Nafay, Mohammad Salman Mirza, Sahibzada Farhan, and Usman Tariq.

Notably, Mohammad Rizwan does not find a place despite also missing the Asia Cup. Retained players include Shaheen Shah Afridi, Fakhar Zaman, Mohammad Nawaz, and Saim Ayub.

Pakistan will open their campaign against the Netherlands in Colombo on February 7 and are scheduled to play a three-match T20I series at home against Australia as part of their preparations pending the government’s final clearance.

Pakistan T20 World Cup Squad 2026:

Salman Ali Agha (C), Abrar Ahmed, Babar Azam, Faheem Ashraf, Fakhar Zaman, Khawaja Mohammad Nafay (WK), Mohammad Nawaz, Mohammad Salman Mirza, Naseem Shah, Sahibzada Farhan, Saim Ayub, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Shadab Khan, Usman Khan (WK), Usman Tariq

                                               

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