In a surprising move just ahead of the 2026 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, Pakistan has decided to leave out several key players, including captain Babar Azam and pacer Shaheen Shah Afridi, from their squad for the upcoming three-match T20I series against Sri Lanka. This decision has sparked a great deal of debate, with many questioning the rationale behind the selection as the countdown to the World Cup continues.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) revealed that Babar Azam, Shaheen Afridi, Mohammad Rizwan, and Haris Rauf will all miss the Sri Lanka series, as they are currently participating in the Big Bash League (BBL) in Australia. Despite the looming T20 World Cup, the PCB has opted to honor the franchise commitments of these players, deciding against recalling them early. This has raised eyebrows, especially given the importance of this series as a warm-up ahead of the World Cup.
To lead the squad in this series, the PCB has appointed Salman Ali Agha as captain, signaling a shift toward giving emerging players a chance to step up. The series, scheduled from January 7 to 11, 2026, will see a team that lacks its usual stars, giving Pakistan an opportunity to test some new faces.
One of the major inclusions is all-rounder Shadab Khan, who has returned to the fold after recovering from shoulder surgery. His return is a much-needed boost, but the team’s overall composition will be vastly different from what many expected. Additionally, uncapped wicketkeeper-batter Khawaja Nafay has earned his first senior call-up, showing the PCB’s confidence in bringing fresh talent into the international fold.
While the series against Sri Lanka was anticipated to serve as an ideal warm-up for the World Cup, Pakistan now faces the challenge of fine-tuning their strategy without their senior stars. Some critics view this move as a “bold gamble,” while others believe it could give the emerging players valuable experience and exposure before the World Cup in India and Sri Lanka.
The three-match T20I series will take place in Dambulla, Sri Lanka, and is expected to be closely watched by fans and analysts alike. With the World Cup looming on the horizon, Pakistan will face a tough Group B, which includes teams like India, the USA, Namibia, and the Netherlands. All eyes will be on how this new-look squad performs, and whether the absence of their leading stars proves to be a strategic advantage or a misstep.
