Shadab Returns as Pakistan Name Squad for Sri Lanka T20I Series

Pakistan have announced their T20I squad for the upcoming three-match series against Sri Lanka, marking the return of experienced all-rounder Shadab Khan and the first-ever national selection for young batter Khawaja Nafay. The series, scheduled for January in Dambulla, will be Pakistan’s final international T20 assignment before the T20 World Cup in February–March, set to be co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka. Salman Agha has been retained as captain as the team focuses on fine-tuning combinations and assessing emerging talent.

Shadab Khan’s Comeback After Injury Layoff

Shadab Khan’s inclusion brings a significant boost to Pakistan’s middle order and spin department. The leg-spinning all-rounder last represented Pakistan in June during a home T20I series against Bangladesh, where he contributed with both bat and ball, scoring 55 runs and claiming four wickets in a dominant 3–0 sweep. Following that series, Shadab underwent surgery to address a recurring issue in his right shoulder, keeping him out of competitive cricket for several months. He made his return on December 16 while featuring for Sydney Thunder in Australia’s Big Bash League, signaling his readiness for international action once again.

Khawaja Nafay’s Rise Through Domestic and Franchise Cricket

At just 23, Khawaja Nafay has earned his first call-up to the national side after consistent performances across domestic and franchise competitions. Recently seen in action during the Abu Dhabi T10, Nafay has also been a regular member of the Pakistan Shaheens setup. Across 32 T20 matches, he has accumulated 688 runs at an impressive strike rate of 132.81, underlining his aggressive batting style and potential value at the top of the order. His part-time wicketkeeping ability further enhances his appeal as a versatile squad option.

Sri Lanka vs Pakistan T20I Series Schedule

The three-match T20I series between Sri Lanka and Pakistan will be played entirely in Dambulla. The first match is set for January 7, followed by the second on January 9, with the final encounter scheduled for January 11. These fixtures are expected to play a crucial role in shaping Pakistan’s World Cup plans.

Balancing Franchise Commitments and National Duty

While several Pakistani stars participating in the Big Bash League, including Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Haris Rauf, and Hasan Ali, have largely been rested, the selectors have drawn heavily from players currently featuring in the Bangladesh Premier League. Khawaja Nafay, Abrar Ahmed, Mohammad Nawaz, Sahibzada Farhan, and Usman Khan will temporarily leave their BPL franchises to join the national squad in Sri Lanka, reflecting the importance placed on this series by team management.

A Platform for Emerging Talent Before the World Cup

Originally viewed as a final rehearsal to lock in Pakistan’s World Cup squad, the Sri Lanka series now offers an extended audition for players looking to secure their long-term place in the T20 setup. With some established names rested, opportunities have opened up for newer faces. Abdul Samad, who has been on the selectors’ radar for nearly a year, adds further competition at the top of the order alongside Nafay. Their inclusion increases depth in an already competitive batting lineup.

Fast Bowling Combinations Under the Spotlight

The absence of frontline pacers Shaheen Afridi and Haris Rauf places added responsibility on the shoulders of Salman Mirza and Naseem Shah. Mirza, who impressed toward the end of last year and featured in Pakistan’s tri-series final win over Sri Lanka, is expected to play a leading role. Along with Naseem, he will spearhead the pace attack, aiming to stake a claim for a World Cup spot alongside contenders such as Mohammad Wasim and Rauf.

Final Preparations Before the Global Event

Following the Sri Lanka tour, Pakistan will play one more T20I series before the World Cup, hosting Australia for three matches at the end of January. These games will serve as the final opportunity to solidify combinations and address any remaining gaps ahead of the global tournament.

Pakistan T20I Squad vs Sri Lanka

The squad includes Salman Agha (captain), Abdul Samad, Abrar Ahmed, Faheem Ashraf, Fakhar Zaman, Khawaja Nafay, Mohammad Nawaz, Salman Mirza, Mohammad Wasim, Naseem Shah, Sahibzada Farhan, Saim Ayub, Shadab Khan, Usman Khan, and Usman Tariq.

About the Author

Sorit Chaudhary

View All Posts