The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has made bold and unexpected changes ahead of the upcoming three-match T20 International series against Bangladesh, set to be played in Lahore from May 28 to June 1, 2025. In a surprising move, top players Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, and Shaheen Shah Afridi have been excluded from the squad.
This new selection reflects a shift in strategy as Pakistan begins to build a fresh core for the T20 World Cup 2026, which will be hosted jointly by India and Sri Lanka. Stepping into leadership is Salman Ali Agha, who has been named captain of the team. The 17-member squad is a mix of promising young talent and seasoned campaigners, many of whom have impressed in the ongoing Pakistan Super League (PSL), which concludes on May 25.
Former New Zealand coach Mike Hesson, newly appointed as Pakistan’s head coach, will lead the team for the first time. His appointment signals a strategic overhaul and a renewed focus on modern T20 dynamics. Hesson replaces Aaqib Javed and is expected to bring his experience and tactical expertise into play from the very beginning of his tenure.
According to a statement by the PCB, the squad was selected based on player performance in the ongoing PSL. Notably, batter Sahibzada Farhan has made a return after topping the PSL run charts with 394 runs, showcasing consistency and form. Also returning are Fakhar Zaman and Saim Ayub, both having missed the recent New Zealand tour due to injuries.
Among bowlers, Hasan Ali has earned a recall after recovering from multiple injuries, while other fast bowlers like Naseem Shah, Haris Rauf, and Mohammad Wasim Jr add firepower to the bowling unit. The squad also features all-round options such as Faheem Ashraf, Shadab Khan, and Khushdil Shah, providing depth and flexibility.
Shaheen Afridi, despite picking up 12 wickets for Lahore Qalandars in 10 PSL matches with an economy rate of 8.20, has been left out. Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan, though highly experienced, faced criticism for their slow scoring in recent T20 appearances, leading to their continued absence from the format.
The revised schedule for the Pakistan vs. Bangladesh series was also announced. All three matches will be hosted at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium, with games scheduled for May 28, May 30, and June 1, all beginning at 8:00 PM local time. Bangladesh is expected to arrive in Lahore on May 25, with practice sessions planned for May 26 and 27.
Pakistan T20I Squad:
Salman Ali Agha (Captain), Shadab Khan, Abrar Ahmed, Faheem Ashraf, Fakhar Zaman, Haris Rauf, Hasan Ali, Hassan Nawaz, Hussain Talat, Khushdil Shah, Mohammad Haris, Mohammad Wasim Jr., Mohammad Irfan Khan, Naseem Shah, Sahibzada Farhan, Saim Ayub
This marks a new era for Pakistan cricket, with young guns ready to shine and a renewed focus on aggressive, modern T20 strategies. All eyes will be on Lahore as the Green Shirts begin their journey toward T20 World Cup 2026.
