Star all-rounder set to make comeback for Pakistan in upcoming Sri Lanka tour
Star all-rounder Shadab Khan is set to make a comeback as Pakistan likely announce their T20I squad for the Sri Lanka tour ahead of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, with Haris Rauf and young talents also in contention.
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Set to make a comeback is Shadab Khan, a veteran all-rounder who has been in great form lately and is the most awaited player in the announced list for Pakistan’s squad for the upcoming three-match T20I series against Sri Lanka. According to sources, discussions are taking place right now, and the final team may be unveiled soon.
The management's decision to include Shadab depends on how well he has recovered from his recent injury, as the player has been giving a positive response while playing in the Big Bash League. His potential recall comes at a critical moment, as the management is trying to finalize the middle order before the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026, which India and Sri Lanka will co-host. Pakistan's tour to Sri Lanka will probably lay the groundwork for Pakistan's World Cup team, as the preliminary list is to be submitted by January 7.
Haris Rauf, the fast bowler, is being considered seriously as well. Rauf, who was excluded from the South Africa tour and the recent T20I tri-nation series, made a mark in the BBL and then produced good performances in the ODI series against Sri Lanka. His speed and experience might be crucial for Pakistan as they try to make their bowling attack ready for the global conditions.
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The selectors are also looking to freshen up the crew with new talent. Young opening batter Maaz Sadaqat, who drew attention during the Asia Cup Rising Stars with his mind-blowing strike rate, is said to be the one for a first-time call-up. Another fast bowler, Ahmed Daniyal, is the new name that has come up in the discussions about Pakistan's future cricketing plans.
Availability does continue to be a problem for certain veteran players, though. The participation in BBL can lead to a situation where players such as Babar Azam and Shaheen Afridi miss the series against Sri Lanka due to their franchises' managing workloads and commitments to the players.
Pakistan, captained by Salman Ali Agha, will play against Sri Lanka in Dambulla on January 7, 9, and 11. As the T20 World Cup is coming soon, the series becomes very important for practicing and perfecting combinations, as well as for the return of star players like Shadab Khan.
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