The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has announced a 16-member national squad for the upcoming three-match T20 series against Bangladesh. Salman Ali Agha will continue as captain, with Shadab Khan appointed as vice-captain.
This series marks the first international assignment for Pakistan’s new head coach, Mike Hesson, who takes charge of the team amid high expectations. The squad was selected following the conclusion of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) season 10, which ended on May 25. Player selections were based largely on recent performances in the PSL, emphasizing a focus on fresh talent and long-term team development.
Notably, some of Pakistan’s leading players, including Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, and Shaheen Afridi, have been excluded from the squad. This decision signals a strategic shift to give opportunities to emerging players and build a competitive team for the future.
The 16-man squad includes a blend of experienced cricketers and promising youngsters:
Salman Ali Agha (captain), Shadab Khan (vice-captain), Abrar Ahmed, Faheem Ashraf, Fakhar Zaman, Haris Rauf, Hassan Ali, Hassan Nawaz, Hussain Talat, Khushdil Shah, Mohammad Haris (wicketkeeper), Mohammad Wasim Jr, Mohammad Irfan Khan, Naseem Shah, Sahibzada Farhan (wicketkeeper), and Saim Ayub.
The PCB described the squad as well-balanced, aiming to provide a platform for emerging talent while maintaining competitiveness on the international stage. All three T20 matches will take place at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium. The full match schedule and timings are expected to be released soon.
Salman Ali Agha’s continued captaincy reflects confidence in his leadership after strong performances in domestic cricket and the PSL. Fans are eager to see how this youthful squad performs against a challenging Bangladesh side on home turf.
