No Mohammad Rizwan as Pakistan unveils provisional squad for the T20 World Cup 2026

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The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has dropped a seismic bombshell just weeks out from the ICC T20 World Cup 2026, unveiling a provisional 15-man squad that signals a complete ideological overhaul of the national team. In a move that will dominate headlines across the cricketing world, senior wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan has been omitted from the squad entirely. Salman Ali Agha has been named captain of the unit which has superstars like Babar Azam and Shaheen Afridi.

For years, Rizwan has been the bedrock of Pakistan’s T20 lineup. His partnership at the top with Babar defined an era—prolific 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 that has often left Pakistan 20-30 runs short of par totals. The selectors have opted for raw aggression up top, with Saim Ayub and Sahibzada Farhan likely to partner Fakhar Zaman, and have handed the wicketkeeping gloves to the explosive Usman Khan.

Agha will be leading the side in the global showpiece event. He has been a reliable, unsung performer in the middle order and a handy off-spinner, but few saw him as the next national skipper. His appointment suggests a desire for a “neutral” leader, moving away from the high-profile captaincy merry-go-round involving Babar and Afridi over the last two years. The management will hope Agha’s calm demeanor can unite a dressing room full of superstars during a high-pressure tournament.

Despite the revolutionary changes at the top and in leadership, the core engine room of the team remains intact. Babar retains his place, likely shifting permanently to the No. 3 spot to anchor the innings after the aggressive openers have (hopefully) fired. His recent BBL form has been solid, securing his spot despite the philosophical shift.

Crucially for Pakistan’s chances, the terrifying pace trio is reunited and reportedly fit. Shaheen, Naseem Shah, and Haris Rauf are all included. On subcontinent pitches that might offer some early swing or reverse later on, this attack remains one of the most potent in world cricket. They are backed up by promising seamer Salman Ali Mirza.

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Shadab Khan also returns to the squad following a frustrating period of injury. If fully fit, his all-round ability is vital to team balance. He is joined by mystery spinner Abrar Ahmed, who provides control. Usman Tariq, whose unique bowling action could prove to be Pakistan’s X-factor on turning tracks. The all-round spin duties will be shared by veteran Mohammad Nawaz and the seam-bowling all-rounder Faheem Ashraf.

It is crucial to note that this is a provisional squad. Under ICC regulations, teams have until January 31, 2026, to make final changes without needing technical committee approval.

Pakistan’s provisional squad for T20 World Cup 2026

Salman Ali Agha (c), Saim Ayub, Sahibzada Farhan, Fakhar Zaman, Babar Azam, Usman Khan (wk), Shadab Khan, Faheem Ashraf, Nawaz, Shaheen Afridi, Haris Rauf, Naseem Shah, Salman Ali Mirza, Abrar Ahmed & Usman Tariq.

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