LAHORE: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has officially announced its squad for the upcoming ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, ending weeks of speculation regarding the team’s composition—though not its participation.
The Headline: Babar is Back The most significant cricketing news is the return of Babar Azam. After a brief period of uncertainty regarding his role in the T20 setup, the selectors have reinstated him as the lynchpin of the batting order. His experience is seen as vital for a tournament being co-hosted in sub-continental conditions.
The “Shadow” Over the Squad While the team sheet is ready, the logistics are not. The announcement comes just hours after reports surfaced of other nations (like Bangladesh) facing participation crises. The PCB has maintained a rigid stance regarding traveling to India (the co-host nation) due to ongoing diplomatic tensions. By naming the squad, the PCB has put the ball in the ICC’s court, effectively stating they are “cricket-ready” but awaiting security clearances.
Key Inclusions Alongside Babar, the squad features a mix of seasoned campaigners and PSL performers. The pace attack, led by Shaheen Afridi, remains their primary weapon. However, analysts believe the timing of this announcement is a strategic message to the ICC that Pakistan intends to fulfill its obligations, provided their hybrid-model or security demands are met.
