Pakistan Announces 17-Member Squad for UAE T20 Tri-Series and Asia Cup 2025
By Shahzaib • Aug 17, 2025
Lahore, August 17, 2025 — The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has announced its 17-member squad for the upcoming T20 tri-series and the Asia Cup, both scheduled to take place in the United Arab Emirates.
In a bold decision, the selectors have once again left out former captains Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan, signaling a significant shift towards younger and more dynamic talent in the T20 format.
Squad Led by Salman Ali Agha
The team will be captained by Salman Ali Agha, who will lead a balanced combination of seasoned performers and promising newcomers.
Experienced names such as Shaheen Shah Afridi, Fakhar Zaman (making a comeback after a hamstring injury), Haris Rauf, Hasan Ali, and Faheem Ashraf will provide the core strength of the side.
Meanwhile, fresh faces like Saim Ayub, Hasan Nawaz, and wicketkeeper Mohammad Haris have been included, showcasing the PCB’s intent to inject new energy and versatility into the lineup.
Full 17-Member Squad
- Salman Ali Agha (captain)
- Abrar Ahmed
- Faheem Ashraf
- Fakhar Zaman
- Haris Rauf
- Hasan Ali
- Hasan Nawaz
- Hussain Talat
- Khushdil Shah
- Mohammad Haris (wk)
- Mohammad Nawaz
- Mohammad Waseem Jr
- Sahibzada Farhan
- Saim Ayub
- Salman Mirza
- Shaheen Shah Afridi
- Sufyan Moqim
Tournament Schedule
T20 Tri-Series (Sharjah, UAE)
Pakistan will begin their campaign in the tri-nation T20 series against Afghanistan and UAE, scheduled from August 29 to September 7 at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium.
Asia Cup T20 (UAE, September 9–28)
The Asia Cup will feature eight teams — the five ACC full members along with UAE, Oman, and Hong Kong. Pakistan has been placed in Group A alongside India, Oman, and UAE.
- September 12: Pakistan vs Oman (Dubai)
- September 14: Pakistan vs India (Dubai)
- September 17: Pakistan vs UAE (Dubai)
- September 20–26: Super Fours (Abu Dhabi & Dubai)
- September 28: Final (Dubai)
What This Means
- Strategic Shift: The exclusion of big names like Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan marks a clear change in direction, with the PCB investing in youth for the shorter format.
- Balanced Squad: The mix of seasoned performers and rising stars suggests a well-rounded side capable of handling pressure situations while bringing fresh energy to the field.
- Key Insights:
- Fakhar Zaman’s inclusion, despite his recent injury, highlights his importance at the top of the order.
- Shaheen Afridi remains Pakistan’s premier strike bowler, with the added ability to contribute valuable runs down the order.