LAHORE: Pakistan have announced their 15-member T20I squad for the home series against South Africa and the tri-nation tournament featuring Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe, marking the return of Babar Azam and Naseem Shah to the shortest format after being on the sidelines for a year.
Babar, Pakistan’s second-highest run-scorer in T20 internationals, last featured in the format in December 2024. His absence from recent campaigns, including the Asia Cup, had raised questions about his future in white-ball cricket. However, his recall signals a renewed emphasis on experience and stability in Pakistan’s batting lineup. The former captain joins a squad led by Salman Ali Agha, with selectors opting for a blend of seasoned performers and emerging talent.
Naseem Shah, who impressed in the Caribbean Premier League with the St Kitts and Nevis Patriots, also returns to the T20 setup. His recent form, coupled with his consistent performances in ODIs, makes him a key asset in Pakistan’s pace attack. Usman Tariq, an offspinner who shone for Trinbago Knight Riders, earns his maiden call-up, while Abdul Samad, Abrar Ahmed, Faheem Ashraf, and Hasan Nawaz round out the squad’s promising core.
Notably, Mohammad Rizwan, recently removed as ODI captain, retains his place in the 50-over squad but is absent from the T20 lineup. Shaheen Shah Afridi will lead the ODI side for the first time in the three-match series against South Africa, scheduled from November 4 to 8 in Faisalabad.
The T20I series against South Africa will be held from October 28 to November 1 at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium and Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore, followed by the tri-series from November 17 to 29. These fixtures are seen as critical preparation ahead of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup next year.
Among the reserves are Fakhar Zaman and Haris Rauf, the latter facing scrutiny after a disappointing Asia Cup campaign. Hasan Ali and Hussain Talat have been left out of both white-ball squads, reflecting a shift in selection priorities. Pakistan T20I Series Schedule vs South Africa After drawing the Test series 1-1, Pakistan will be up against South Africa in a three-match T20I series starting from October 28.
Salman Ali Agha (captain), Abdul Samad, Abrar Ahmed, Babar Azam, Faheem Ashraf, Hasan Nawaz, Mohammad Nawaz, Mohammad Wasim Jnr, Mohammad Salman Mirza, Naseem Shah, Sahibzada Farhan, Saim Ayub, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Usman Khan (wicket-keeper), Usman Tariq. Reserves: Fakhar Zaman, Haris Rauf, Sufiyan Moqim.
Fixtures: October 28:- First T20I at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, Rawalpindi October 31: Second T20I at Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore November 1: Third T20I at Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore.