Pakistan’s National Selection Committee has named a 15-member squad for the upcoming three-match T20 International series against Sri Lanka, scheduled for January 7–11, 2026. The series will serve as a key opportunity for Pakistan to finalise their squad ahead of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka from February 7 to March 8.
Salman Ali Agha to Lead Pakistan
Salman Ali Agha will continue to lead the Pakistan side in Sri Lanka. The captain featured in a record 34 T20Is this year, the most by any Pakistan player, and brings both experience and leadership to the squad. Under his guidance, the team will aim to test combinations and build momentum ahead of the World Cup.
Shadab Khan Returns After Shoulder Surgery
The most notable return to the squad is all-rounder Shadab Khan. The 27-year-old last represented Pakistan in June 2025 before undergoing shoulder surgery. After completing a successful rehabilitation programme at the National Cricket Academy, Shadab has been actively participating in the Big Bash League (BBL) in Australia, regaining form and fitness.
Shadab’s return strengthens Pakistan’s spin and lower-middle-order batting options, providing balance and experience to the squad.
Khawaja Nafay Earns Maiden Call-Up
The other new addition to the squad is uncapped wicketkeeper-batter Khawaja Mohammad Nafay. The 23-year-old right-handed batter has recently been part of the Pakistan Shaheens setup and has played 32 T20 matches at a strike rate of 132.81. His inclusion adds depth to the team’s wicketkeeping options and batting lineup.
Full Squad and Role Distribution
The 15-member squad reflects a mix of experienced internationals, emerging talent, and versatile all-rounders:
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Salman Ali Agha (captain)
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Abdul Samad
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Abrar Ahmad
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Faheem Ashraf
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Fakhar Zaman
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Khawaja Nafay (wk)
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Mohammad Nawaz
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Mohammad Salman Mirza
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Mohammad Wasim Jr
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Naseem Shah
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Sahibzada Farhan (wk)
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Saim Ayub
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Shadab Khan
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Usman Khan (wk)
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Usman Tariq
The squad provides Pakistan with multiple wicketkeeping options, flexible batting combinations, and a strong bowling attack suitable for subcontinental conditions.
Series Schedule and Objectives
Pakistan will depart for Sri Lanka in the first week of January. All three T20Is will be played at the Rangiri Dambulla International Cricket Stadium (RDICS) in Dambulla:
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January 7 – First T20I
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January 9 – Second T20I
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January 11 – Third T20I
This series gives Pakistan the chance to evaluate player form, finalise combinations, and prepare strategically for the T20 World Cup. Additionally, performing well in Sri Lanka’s conditions will help the team build confidence and match readiness before the global tournament begins in February.
