Big returns boost Pakistan ahead of T20 World Cup
Having missed out from the three-match series against Sri Lanka, Babar Azam and Shaheen Afridi mark their return in the lead-up to the marquee tournament.
Pakistan have announced their 16-member squad for the upcoming three-match T20I series against Australia starting January 29.
With the contest offering an opportunity to providing finishing touches for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, experienced duo of Babar Azam and Shaheen Afridi have returned to the T20I setup.
Pakistan T20I squad: Salman Ali Agha (c), Abrar Ahmed, Babar Azam, Faheem Ashraf, Fakhar Zaman, Khawaja Mohammad Nafay, Mohammad Nawaz, Mohammad Salman Mirza, Mohammad Wasim Jnr, Naseem Shah, Sahibzada Farhan, Saim Ayub, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Shadab Khan, Usman Khan and Usman Tariq.
Babar Azam: pride of Pakistan
The duo had missed Pakistan’s T20I series in Sri Lanka. Also part of the squad is Shadab Khan, who made his comeback in the national setup after a six-month period.
Shadab will boost Pakistan’s spin bowling unit, which also includes Abrar Ahmed, Mohammad Nawaz and Usman Tariq.
Pakistan and Australia, who have both won T20 World Cups in the past - in 2009 and 2021 respectively, will square off in three matches before heading for the tournament in India and Sri Lanka.
Pakistan are slotted in Group A alongside USA, Namibia, the Netherlands and co-hosts India. Meanwhile, Australia are part of Group B with Sri Lanka, Ireland, Oman and Zimbabwe.