Pakistan have received a timely boost ahead of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 with the return of Babar Azam and Shaheen Shah Afridi to the T20I setup for the upcoming three-match series against Australia, starting January 29. The 16-member squad marks a near full-strength selection as Pakistan look to fine-tune combinations ahead of the global tournament in India and Sri Lanka.
The experienced duo had been rested for the recent T20I series against Sri Lanka, but their comeback underlines the importance Pakistan are placing on this contest. Also returning is Shadab Khan, back in national colours after a six-month absence, adding balance and leadership to the middle order and bowling attack.
Pakistan’s spin department looks particularly well-stocked, with Abrar Ahmed, Mohammad Nawaz and Usman Tariq joining Shadab to provide variety and control, a key focus with subcontinental conditions in mind. The series is expected to play a major role in finalising Pakistan’s World Cup blueprint.
Both Pakistan and Australia are former T20 World Cup champions, Pakistan lifting the trophy in 2009 and Australia in 2021, and the series promises high-intensity cricket ahead of the marquee event. Pakistan will compete in Group A alongside India, USA, Namibia and the Netherlands, while Australia find themselves in Group B with Sri Lanka, Ireland, Oman and Zimbabwe.
With senior stars back and World Cup momentum in sight, Pakistan will view the Australia series as a crucial rehearsal, one that could define their readiness for another global title push.
Pakistan T20I squad: Salman Ali Agha (C), 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.
