Pakistan’s White-Ball cricket team has unveiled a strong and balanced squad for the upcoming T20 series and the Asia Cup, Head Coach Mike Hesson confirmed. The announcement highlights a strategic mix of experienced players and emerging talent, aimed at performing well in UAE conditions.
Speaking on social media, Hesson said it was encouraging to see new players earning their place alongside senior, seasoned campaigners. “This combination of youth and experience is ideal for the tri-nation series and Asia Cup,” he stated. The squad is carefully structured to include five pacers and two mystery spinners, providing a balanced attack suited for UAE pitches. Hesson emphasized that the team also has strong batting, improved fielding, and a potent bowling attack. He concluded his message with the patriotic note: “Pakistan Zindabad.”
The 17-member squad was announced in a press conference by selectors and Director of High Performance, Aqib Javed, alongside Hesson. Salman Ali Agha will continue as captain. Key players in the squad include Fakhar Zaman, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Haris Rauf, Saeem Ayub, Khushdil Shah, and Hussain Talat. Other members are Mohammad Nawaz, Mohammad Wasim Jr., Mohammad Haris, Abrar Ahmed, Faheem Ashraf, Hasan Ali, Hasan Nawaz, Sahibzada Farhan, Salman Mirza, and Sufyan Muqeem.
Notably, Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, and Naseem Shah are not part of this squad for the UAE-based events. Aqib Javed explained that selection is based on current form and team balance, noting that players like Saeem, Fakhar, and Sahibzada Farhan have consistently performed as top-order batsmen. He emphasized that excluding players for a few matches does not mean they are out of future consideration. “Babar and Rizwan will play if they maintain form, and options are strong at the moment,” he said.
The tri-nation T20 series will feature Pakistan, Afghanistan, and UAE from August 29 to September 7 in Sharjah. The Asia Cup will follow from September 9 to 28 in Abu Dhabi and Dubai. This scheduling provides the team with preparation for both competitions while testing player combinations and strategies.
With a squad blending experience and emerging talent, Pakistan aims to make a mark in both tournaments. Hesson and the selectors are confident that the current squad possesses the right balance to compete at a high level and adapt to UAE playing conditions, giving fans hope for an exciting and successful campaign.
