Babar returns as Pakistan name T20 World Cup squad despite tournament doubt

Pakistan Unveils Squad for T20 World Cup 2026

Pakistan has officially named its 15-member squad for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka, with star batsman Babar Azam making a highly anticipated return alongside pace spearhead Shaheen Shah Afridi.

The announcement comes just days before the tournament kicks off on February 7, injecting fresh excitement into the Pakistan camp as they aim to reclaim glory from their 2009 triumph. Salman Ali Agha steps up as captain, bringing a steady hand to lead a balanced side featuring experienced campaigners and promising talents.

Babar, fresh off shattering records to become the highest run-scorer in Men’s T20 Internationals, anchors the batting lineup with his proven class under pressure. His inclusion signals the team's faith in his ability to deliver in crunch moments, especially as Pakistan faces a tough Group A draw.

Key Returns and Notable Absences Spark Debate

The squad boasts major returns that could prove game-changing. Babar Azam’s experience at the top order pairs perfectly with aggressive openers like Saim Ayub and Sahibzada Farhan, while Shaheen Afridi and Naseem Shah form a formidable pace duo in the absence of Haris Rauf.

All-rounders such as Shadab Khan, Mohammad Nawaz, and Faheem Ashraf add versatility, capable of turning matches with bat or ball. Wicketkeepers Khawaja Mohammad Nafay, Sahibzada Farhan, and Usman Khan provide solid options behind the stumps and in the middle order.

Notable omissions include Haris Rauf and Mohammad Rizwan, decisions that have raised eyebrows among fans and pundits. Head coach insights suggest the pace attack of Shaheen, Naseem, and others covers all phases effectively, while the keeper role prioritizes middle-order stability over top-order flair.

"He certainly has the skill to control the middle overs, if required, and then to feed the strike to certain players. If we're chasing a lower score, he certainly has that ability to control a chase," the head coach said, explaining selections tailored to Sri Lankan conditions.

Group A Challenges and Campaign Fixtures

Drawn in Group A with co-hosts and defending champions India, along with Netherlands, USA, and Namibia, Pakistan faces a steep path to the Super 12s. All their group matches will unfold in Colombo, Sri Lanka, starting with a clash against the Netherlands on February 7.

Subsequent fixtures include the USA on February 10, a blockbuster against India on February 15, and Namibia on February 18—each promising high stakes and electric atmospheres. The team’s depth in spin with Abrar Ahmed and all-round options should suit the subcontinental pitches.

Fakhar Zaman’s explosive batting and Usman Tariq’s emerging prowess round out a lineup blending firepower and finesse. As the 2009 champions gear up, Salman Agha’s leadership will be tested early, with Babar’s form potentially pivotal against familiar foes.

The squad’s composition reflects a strategic pivot, emphasizing balance over star power alone, setting the stage for a compelling tournament run.

In summary, Pakistan’s T20 World Cup 2026 squad, captained by Salman Ali Agha and featuring Babar Azam’s record-breaking return alongside Shaheen Afridi, positions them strongly despite key exclusions like Haris Rauf and Rizwan. Group A awaits with India and others, as they chase a second title starting February 7 in Colombo.