Pakistan Shaheens, led by Muhammad Irfan Khan, are set to depart for Darwin, Australia today to participate in the prestigious Top End T20 Series. The 11-team tournament will run from 14 to 24 August, bringing together competitive domestic and ‘A’ sides from different cricketing nations. The Shaheens will open their campaign on 14 August against Bangladesh ‘A’ at the TIO Stadium in a much-anticipated clash.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has made two notable changes to the 15-member squad ahead of the tour. Batter Haider Ali has been temporarily suspended on disciplinary grounds and replaced by Mohammad Faiq, while pacer Mohammad Wasim Jnr has been brought in for left-arm fast bowler Salman Mirza.
The final 15-member squad features a mix of promising talent and experienced campaigners:
Muhammad Irfan Khan (captain), Abdul Samad, Ahmed Daniyal, Faisal Akram, Khawaja Mohammad Nafay (wicket-keeper), Maaz Sadaqat, Mehran Mumtaz, Mohammad Faiq, Mohammad Wasim Jnr, Muhammad Ghazi Ghori (wicket-keeper), Mubasir Khan, Saad Masood, Shahid Aziz, Ubaid Shah, and Yasir Khan.
Supporting the squad is a strong management team: Ghulam Ali (head coach), Sami Ullah Niazi (bowling coach), Mansoor Amjad (fielding coach), Muhammad Ibrahim (analyst), and Muhammad Aleem (physio).
The Shaheens’ fixtures promise an action-packed schedule:
- 14 Aug – vs Bangladesh ‘A’, TIO Stadium (7 pm local)
- 16 Aug – vs Scorchers, TIO Stadium (4 pm local)
- 18 Aug – vs Renegades, TIO Stadium (6 pm local)
- 19 Aug – vs Kingsmen, DXC Arena (1 pm local)
- 20 Aug – vs Strikers, DXC Arena (7 pm local)
- 22 Aug – vs Nepal, DXC Arena (7 pm local)
- 24 Aug – Semi-finals & Final
With a balanced combination of youth and skill, the Pakistan Shaheens will look to make a strong mark in Darwin. Their first challenge against Bangladesh ‘A’ will set the tone for a campaign where consistency, discipline, and teamwork will be key.
