Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) dropped a seismic bomb just weeks before ICC T20 World Cup 2026The unveiling of a provisional 15-man squad that signals a complete ideological overhaul of the national team. A move that will make headlines across the cricket world, the senior wicketkeeper-batsman Mohammad Rizwan Has been completely removed from the team. salman ali aga Has been made the captain of the unit which has players like superstars Babar Azam And Shaheen Afridi,
Mohammad Rizwan dropped from Pakistan team for T20 World Cup 2026
Over the years, Rizwan has been the cornerstone of Pakistan’s T20 lineup. His partnership at the top with Babar defined an era – abundant in runs, but often criticized for its sedate pace in the powerplay. Rizwan’s exclusion is a clear statement that the team management is moving away from the “anchor” philosophy, which often leaves Pakistan 20-30 runs behind the total. The selectors have chosen raw aggression on top Saim Ayyub And Sahebzada Farhan Fakhar Zaman is likely to be his partner and has handed over the wicketkeeping gloves to the explosive Usman Khan.
Salman Aga to lead Men in Green
Aga will lead the team in the global showpiece event. He has been a reliable, consistent performer in the middle order and a useful off-spinner, but few saw him as the next national captain. His appointment suggests a desire for a “neutral” leader, away from the high-profile captaincy fun associated with Babar and Afridi over the past two years. The management will be hoping that Agha’s calm nature can unify a dressing room full of superstars during the high-pressure tournament.
The core group will remain the same
Despite radical changes at the top and leadership, the main engine room of the team remains intact. Babar has retained his position, likely to be permanently shifted to the No. 3 spot to carry the innings after the aggressive openers (hopefully). His recent BBL form has been solid, securing his spot despite the philosophical change.
The important thing for Pakistan’s chances is that the formidable pace trio is reunited and reportedly fit. Shaheen, Naseem ShahAnd Haris Rauf Everyone is included. On subcontinent pitches, which may offer some early swing or reverse later on, this attack remains one of the most powerful in world cricket. He is supported by the promising seamer salman ali mirza,
Also read: Babar Azam not included in Pakistan’s T20 team for Sri Lanka series
Shadab Khan The team has made a comeback despite a disappointing period of injuries. If fully fit, his all-round ability is vital to team balance. The mystery spinner has also joined them Abrar AhmedWhich provides control. Osman TariqWhose unique bowling action can prove to be the X-factor for Pakistan on turning tracks. All-round spin duties will be shared by the experienced Mohammad Nawaz and seam-bowling all-rounder Faheem Ashraf,
It is important to note that this is a temporary squad. Under ICC rules, teams have until January 31, 2026, to make final changes without technical committee approval.
Pakistan’s provisional team for T20 World Cup 2026
Salman Ali Aga (captain), Saeem Ayub, Sahibzada Farhan, Fakhar Zaman, Babar Azam, Usman Khan (wicketkeeper), Shadab Khan, Faheem Ashraf, Nawaz, Shaheen Afridi, Haris Rauf, Naseem Shah, Salman Ali Mirza, Abrar Ahmed and Usman Tariq.
Also read: Bangladesh team named for T20 World Cup 2026; no room for jekar ali