Former Pakistan fast bowler Ehsan Adil is set to play against his former national team while representing the United States in the ICC T20 World Cup 2026, creating a high-stakes and emotional storyline ahead of the Group A clash at the Sinhalese Sports Club, Colombo.

The ICC Event Technical Committee officially approved Adil as a replacement for Jasdeep Singh, who suffered a shoulder injury during the USA’s warm-up match against New Zealand on February 5.

Also Read: T20 World Cup: Pakistan to lock horns with USA in high-pressure clash

A Return After 11 Years

Ehsan Adil, 32, makes a remarkable return to the world stage 11 years after last representing Pakistan in the ICC 2015 World Cup. Debuting at 19 against South Africa, Adil played his final match for Pakistan in the 2015 World Cup quarterfinal against Australia in Adelaide.

Since relocating to the United States, Adil has rebuilt his cricketing career through Major League Cricket, bringing experience and skill to the USA squad. With 245 first-class wickets and a strong T20 domestic record from his time in Pakistan, he adds both firepower and leadership to the team.

High-Stakes Narrative

Adil’s inclusion adds a compelling storyline as the USA faces Pakistan in a match loaded with historical and emotional significance. He joins a growing list of Pakistani-origin players in the American squad, setting up a clash that tests Pakistan’s resilience following their shocking defeat to the USA in the 2024 T20 World Cup.

Cricket analysts note that the match could influence Pakistan’s campaign in Group A, as the team looks to assert dominance over a side that now includes one of their former stars.