Babar Azam ruled out as Pakistan names T20I squad for Sri Lanka series

Pakistan tour of Sri Lanka in 2025/26 marks a crucial preparatory phase before the ICC Men’s T20 World Cupwith a compact three-match T20I series at the Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium. All matches, on January 7, 9 and 11, take place as day-night encounters starting at 7:00 p.m. local time, offering Pakistan vital match practice in subcontinental conditions. Series highlights PCB’s strategy of testing bench strength as senior stars prioritize Big Bash League engagements in Australia.​

Babar Azam missing from announced squad

THE Pakistan Cricket Board stunned fans by excluding former captain Babar Azam and even the rhythm of the spearhead Shaheen Afridi of the 15-member T20I squad for the Sri Lanka tour, alongside Haris Rauf. PCB issued no-objection certificates for their full participation in BBL ahead of the series schedule, prioritizing workload management and overseas exposure over domestic duty despite the reported desire to return.

Uncapped wicketkeeper-batsman Khawaja Nafay23, gets his first call-up to replace Babar, with a strike rate of 132.81 in 32 T20s and recent stints with Pakistan Shaheens. This refreshed range, combining an experience like Fakhar Zaman And Naseem Shah with prospects like Saim Ayubaims to finalize World Cup combinations in Group B against India, Namibia, Netherlands, And USA.

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Shadab Khan returns to national team

Versatile Shadab Khan gets a timely recall after shoulder surgery and rehabilitation at the National Cricket Academy, last playing T20Is in June 2025; he is currently shining in the BBL, strengthening Pakistan’s middle order ahead of the World Cup.

The tour leaves Pakistan in phases on January 4 and 5, supported by a strong team, including the head coach. Mike Hesson. Dambulla’s batting-friendly pitches historically favor high scores, challenging Pakistan’s overhaul against a resurgent Sri Lankan side. This bold selection is a testament to PCB’s long-term vision, blending youth input with strategic rotations to culminate in the World Cup from February 7 to March 8 in India and Sri Lanka.

Pakistan T20I squad for Sri Lanka tour

Salman Ali Agha (c), Abdul Samad, Abrar Ahmed, Faheem Ashraf, Fakhar Zaman, Khawaja Nafay (week), Mohammad Nawaz, Salman Mirza, Mohammad Wasim Jr, Naseem Shah, Sahibzada Farhan (week), Saim AyubShadab Khan, Usman Khan (week), Usman Tariq

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