Babar Azam and Shaheen Afridi Return: Pakistan Announce 16-Member Squad for Australia T20I Series Ahead of T20 World Cup 2026

Pakistan have made a significant statement of intent ahead of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 by recalling their premier players for the crucial three-match T20I series against Australia, set to commence on January 29.

The Pakistan Cricket Board has announced a 16-member squad that sees the much-anticipated return of batting maestro Babar Azam and pace spearhead Shaheen Shah Afridi, both of whom missed the recent T20I series against Sri Lanka.

Key Returns Strengthen Pakistan's World Cup Aspirations

The inclusion of Babar Azam marks a pivotal moment for Pakistan's T20 World Cup preparations. The former captain remains one of the most consistent performers in white-ball cricket globally, and his return adds significant firepower to the batting lineup.

Shaheen Shah Afridi's comeback is equally crucial for the Green Shirts. The left-arm quick has been instrumental in Pakistan's success in major ICC events, and his ability to strike early with the new ball will be vital against quality opposition.

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Shadab Khan Completes Spin Arsenal Revival

Adding further depth to the squad is the return of Shadab Khan, who makes his way back into the national setup after a six-month absence. The leg-spinner's inclusion significantly bolsters Pakistan's spin bowling options.

The spin department now boasts an impressive quartet featuring:

• Shadab Khan - Experienced leg-spinner and handy lower-order batter
• Abrar Ahmed - Mystery spinner with variations
• Mohammad Nawaz - Left-arm orthodox and capable batter
• Usman Tariq - Additional spin option

Full Pakistan Squad for Australia T20I Series

Captain: Salman Ali Agha

Squad Members: Abrar Ahmed, Babar Azam, Faheem Ashraf, Fakhar Zaman, Khawaja Mohammad Nafay, Mohammad Nawaz, Mohammad Salman Mirza, Mohammad Wasim Jnr, Naseem Shah, Sahibzada Farhan, Saim Ayub, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Shadab Khan, Usman Khan and Usman Tariq.

Australia Series: The Perfect World Cup Tune-Up

This three-match series carries immense significance as both cricketing powerhouses have previously lifted the T20 World Cup trophy. Pakistan claimed glory in 2009, while Australia emerged victorious in 2021.

The matches will serve as the final preparation ground before both teams head to India and Sri Lanka for the marquee tournament.

T20 World Cup 2026 Group Stage Preview

Pakistan find themselves in Group A alongside:

• USA
• Namibia
• Netherlands
• Co-hosts India

Meanwhile, Australia will compete in Group B with:

• Sri Lanka
• Ireland
• Oman
• Zimbabwe

Looking Ahead: Pakistan's World Cup Prospects

With the return of their experienced campaigners, Pakistan appear to be building a well-balanced squad capable of challenging for the T20 World Cup title. The blend of youth and experience, combined with the match practice against a formidable Australian side, should provide the ideal platform for their tournament aspirations.

The series against Australia will be crucial in finalizing team combinations, testing the batting order, and ensuring the bowling attack is firing on all cylinders before the global showpiece event begins.