Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is poised to announce the Pakistan squad for Sri Lanka T20Is 2026, with major changes expected ahead of the three‑match Twenty20 series starting January 7 in Dambulla. The tour is seen as a key stepping stone toward finalising Pakistan’s combination for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026.
All eyes are on returning senior stars and promising new faces as selectors strive to strike a balance between experienced campaigners and emerging talent. One of the headline developments is the anticipated comeback of all‑rounder Shadab Khan, who has impressed in the Big Bash League after a shoulder injury lay‑off. His return is widely expected to provide depth in both bowling and middle‑order batting.
Selectors are also closely watching the availability of key pace bowlers like Haris Rauf, who missed recent action but is in contention for inclusion, provided workload and fitness assessments go well. Emerging batter Maaz Sadaqat and seamer Ahmed Daniyal are among the young players tipped for squad inclusion as Pakistan looks to expand its T20 pool.
However, established names such as Babar Azam and Shaheen Shah Afridi could miss the Sri Lanka tour due to their ongoing commitments in Australia’s Big Bash League, depending on their availability and workload management.
This strategic reshuffle comes as PCB continues to refine its T20 combination ahead of the T20 World Cup 2026, set to be hosted by India and Sri Lanka in February and March. The team management has highlighted that the preliminary World Cup squad must be submitted by January 7, the same day Pakistan begins its campaign in Sri Lanka, underscoring the importance of this series in final selections.
Off the field, cricket circles have buzzed about leadership and advisory roles within PCB, adding another layer to national team dynamics. For instance, retiring opener Shan Masood recently rejected a PCB advisory position, signaling his desire to stay connected to the sport in other capacities beyond administrative roles.
With potential shake‑ups and fresh talent on the verge of breaking through, the Pakistan squad for Sri Lanka T20Is 2026 promises to be one of the most intriguing selections in recent T20 history, blending youth, experience and strategic planning.
