The Pakistan Cricket Board has submitted a preliminary list of 15 players to the ICC for the T20 World Cup 2026. A few reserve players have also been included to deal with injuries or emergency changes.
According to PCB sources, the board can make changes to the squad until January 31. Any change after that date will require approval from the ICC’s technical committee.
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Players named in the preliminary squad may be included or dropped from the final team based on their performance in the recent series against Sri Lanka.
Sources say the PCB has already included Babar Azam, Shaheen Afridi, and Haris Rauf in the initial squad. One or two players may be added or removed after closely reviewing performances during the Sri Lanka series.
Other players who toured Sri Lanka have also been included to ensure balance and strength in the squad.
The ICC T20 World Cup will begin on February 7, 2026, and will be hosted by India and Sri Lanka. Pakistan will play all its matches in Sri Lanka.
Before the global event, the PCB aims to assess player form and build a well-balanced team capable of delivering strong performances.
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Cricket analysts believe Babar Azam’s leadership and Shaheen Afridi’s bowling will be key strengths, while young players will gain valuable World Cup experience.
Following the announcement, excitement has surged among cricket fans, who are now eagerly waiting for the final squad.
The early squad shows PCB’s cautious planning. Performance will decide final selection, not reputation. Senior players bring stability, young players bring energy. Fans expect a balanced and competitive Pakistan team.