Pakistan T20 World Cup Squad: Babar, Shaheen named in Preliminary Squad; No Rizwan

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The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has submitted its preliminary squad for the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026, marking an important early step in the team's preparation.

According to reports, the provisional list was sent to the International Cricket Council (ICC) on January 3, 2026, well before the required deadline. The tournament will be co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka, running from February 7 to March 8, 2026.

Pakistan is placed in Group A with India, Namibia, Netherlands, and the United States. All of Pakistan's group matches, and any possible Super 8 games, will take place in Sri Lanka.

This initial squad gives the PCB room to make changes, as teams can adjust their line-up without restrictions until January 31, 2026. The final 15-player team is likely to be confirmed after Pakistan's current three-match T20I series against Sri Lanka (January 7-11) and a possible home series against Australia later in the month. These matches will help selectors evaluate players' form and fitness ahead of the major event.

Babar Azam, Shaheen Afridi included

As per reports, both Babar Azam and Shaheen Afridi have been named in the preliminary squad which was submitted to ICC.

"The PCB has submitted the preliminary squad of 20 before the January 7 deadline, and as per Hesson's contract, he will cut it to 20," a source was quoted as saying by Telecom Asia Sport.

Babar Azam has been included in the team after his recent positive showings, while Shaheen is in the side despite his recent injury, which ruled him out of the Big Bash League. Shadab Khan is said to be named in the team as well, while Mohammad Rizwan has found no place in the team.

Pakistan's squad reportedly features a robust spin attack with five specialist spinners: Shadab Khan, Mohammad Nawaz, Abrar Ahmed, Usman Tariq, and Maaz Sadaqat.