in a certain move that reshapes PakistanJust a few days before the top-ranking strategy t20 world cup 2026captain salman ali aga has officially confirmed the permanent change in the team’s batting order.
Pakistan captain Salman Ali Aga reveals who will bat at number three in T20 World Cup 2026
After a tactical success during series begins against Australia On 29 January, Salman revealed that he would be taking over the number 3 position permanently, signaling a major departure from the team’s traditional dependency. Babar Azam At that crucial one-down spot. Salman Aga’s decision to move up the order is a proactive measure ‘fire with fire’ Against expectations for spin-heavy middle overs Sri Lanka. The captain, who has traditionally been a middle-order finisher, believes his aggressive style is better suited to dominate the spinners during the back end of the powerplay. Addressing the media on January 30, he confirmed his new role:
“Yes, I will bat at No. 3 in the future. We expect to face a lot of spin, and I believe I can dominate spin during the powerplay. That’s why I moved up, and that’s where I’ll be.” Salman Aga said.
In the first T20I against Australia in Lahore, Salman validated this change by coming in immediately at the fall of the second ball and scoring 39 runs in 27 balls, which included four big sixes. His strike rate at No. 3 has been historically phenomenal, often exceeding 160, while his career strike rate in the lower order is around 118.
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Middle innings stability for Pakistan ahead of T20 World Cup 2026
The promotion to captain has forced a significant reshuffle for former captain Babar, who has been officially shifted to No. 4. In the series opener against Australia, Babar scored 24 runs from 20 balls, focusing on rotation and stabilization while powerplay attacks took early risks. This new configuration allows Pakistan to field an explosive opening pair Saim Ayyub And Sahebzada Farhanwith Fakhar Zaman Providing additional firepower at number 5.
In the game, Pakistan successfully defended a total of 168/8 at the Gaddafi Stadium, and took advantage of an “excellent” spin attack to secure a 22-run victory. The win was historic, being Pakistan’s first T20I win over Australia in 2,650 days. Saim Ayyub Was the star of the show, earning Player of the Match honors for his explosive 40 off 22 balls followed by two crucial wickets with the ball.
Pakistan’s possible top order for T20 World Cup 2026
- Number 1 and 2: Saim Ayub and Sahibzada Farhan (opening batsmen)
- No. 3: Salman Ali Aga (captain and spin attack)
- Number 4: Babar Azam (Anchor/Stabilizer)
- Number five: Fakhar Zaman (aggressive finisher)
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