Former Indian off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has identified young Pakistani wicketkeeper-batter Khawaja Nafay as a player to watch in the upcoming ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026. Ashwin’s remark has drawn attention to the rising Pakistani talent ahead of the global tournament.
Sharing his views on social media platform X, Ashwin wrote: “This KM Nafay is a player to keep an eye on this World Cup.” The statement from one of India’s most experienced cricketers has further highlighted Nafay’s growing reputation in international and franchise cricket.
Pakistan’s white-ball head coach Mike Hesson recently explained Nafay’s inclusion in the national squad during a media conference following the team announcement. He said the management had carefully evaluated their wicketkeeping options before finalizing the squad.
Hesson revealed that Sahibzada Farhan was initially considered as a backup wicketkeeper. However, the coaching staff felt that assigning him additional responsibilities could increase his risk of injury. “Farhan is an important player for us, and putting him in that position could have forced our hand,” Hesson said, explaining the decision.
According to Hesson, Khawaja Nafay was selected because of his ability to provide power-hitting in the middle order while also serving as a wicketkeeping option if required. He added that the team management is comfortable with its two wicketkeeping choices heading into the tournament.
The 23-year-old made his international debut during Pakistan’s recent three-match T20I series against Sri Lanka. Nafay made an immediate impact, scoring a quick 26 runs off just 15 balls, including one four and one six, showcasing his aggressive batting style.
Nafay has also impressed in domestic and franchise cricket. He has played 12 Pakistan Super League matches for Quetta Gladiators, scoring 234 runs at a strike rate of 130, including two half-centuries. His consistent performances have marked him as a dependable middle-order option.
In addition, Nafay represented Pakistan Shaheens at the Hong Kong Sixes 2025, where the team lifted the title after defeating Kuwait in the final. He finished as the third-highest run-scorer, scoring 151 runs in five matches at an explosive strike rate of 284.90, including a crucial fifty.
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