The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has officially confirmed its participation in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, ending weeks of political speculation by announcing a 15-member squad on Sunday.
The announcement followed a period of uncertainty where PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi had suggested that Pakistan would boycott the World Cup, following Bangladesh’s withdrawal from the tournament over security concerns in India.
The decision to participate comes shortly after the International Cricket Council (ICC) reportedly threatened Pakistan with severe sanctions if the board proceeded with the rumoured boycott.
Meanwhile, Bangladesh was replaced by Scotland after ICC-commissioned security experts found no credible threat in India.
Salman Ali Agha has been named the team captain. The squad features significant recalls and notable omissions.
Veteran stars Babar Azam and Shaheen Shah Afridi return to the lineup after missing recent series to provide stability and pace.
Pacer Haris Rauf was dropped due to form and fitness concerns, while veteran wicket-keeper Mohammad Rizwan missed the cut following a quiet run in the Big Bash League.
Several players, including Khawaja Mohammad Nafay and Usman Tariq, have earned their maiden World Cup call-ups.
Team: Salman Ali Agha (captain), Abrar Ahmed, Babar Azam, Faheem Ashraf, Fakhar Zaman, Khawaja Mohammad Nafay (wk), Mohammad Nawaz, Mohammad Salman Mirza, Naseem Shah, Sahibzada Farhan (wk), Saim Ayub, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Shadab Khan, Usman Khan (wk), and Usman Tariq.
Following ICC ultimatum, Pakistan falls in line, announces T20 World Cup squad
