PCB has announced the national squad for the upcoming home white-ball series, marking the return of former captain Babar Azam to the T20I lineup. His comeback adds experience and strength to the team as Pakistan prepares for key matches ahead.
Salman Ali Agha will continue to lead the T20I side, while fast bowler Shaheen Afridi has been named captain of the ODI team for the first time in his career. This leadership change aims to bring fresh energy and balance to both formats.
Young talent Usman Tariq has earned his first-ever call-up to the T20I squad, while Abdul Samad and pace bowler Naseem Shah make their return to the shortest format of the game. Their inclusion is seen as a move to strengthen the batting depth and bowling attack.
For the ODI squad, Faisal Akram, Haris Rauf, and wicketkeeper-batter Haseebullah have been recalled, bringing more variety and experience to the lineup.
The home series will begin with five T20I matches against South Africa from October 28 to November 1. It will then be followed by a series of One Day Internationals (ODIs) against both South Africa and Sri Lanka. Later in November, Pakistan will also participate in a tri-nation series.
This announcement has created excitement among fans as Pakistan’s team management looks to test a mix of seasoned players and rising stars ahead of upcoming international tournaments. The series will be crucial for shaping Pakistan’s white-ball strategy for the future.
