In a shocking move just weeks before the 2026 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, Pakistan have dropped star batter Babar Azam and fast bowler Shaheen Shah Afridi from their 15-member squad for the upcoming three-match T20I series against Sri Lanka. The decision, confirmed by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), also sees other key players like Mohammad Rizwan and Haris Rauf missing from the squad, sparking widespread debate about Pakistan’s preparation and priorities ahead of the marquee tournament.

Why have Babar, Shaheen, Rizwan, and Rauf been left out?

The reason behind the omissions is straightforward: all four players are currently fulfilling commitments in the Big Bash League (BBL) in Australia. The PCB has opted to honour their franchise contracts rather than recall them early for the Sri Lanka series, which runs from January 7 to January 11 in Dambulla.

While the decision may seem unusual given the proximity to the T20 World Cup, it reflects the PCB’s willingness to balance player workload, franchise obligations, and the need to give opportunities to fringe players in international conditions.

Pakistan’s T20I squad for the Sri Lanka tour will be captained by Salman Ali Agha, signalling a fresh look for the team as they experiment with combinations ahead of the World Cup.

Shadab Khan returns, Khawaja Nafay earns maiden call-up

Among the notable changes in the squad is the return of all-rounder Shadab Khan, who last played a T20I in June 2025 and has been out of action while recovering from shoulder surgery. His inclusion adds much-needed experience and spin-bowling depth to the side.

Uncapped wicketkeeper-batter Khawaja Nafay has earned his first senior national call-up, reflecting the PCB’s intent to test new talent in international conditions. Nafay has impressed in domestic cricket and will now get a chance to prove himself at the highest level.

A bold gamble or smart strategy?

The PCB’s decision has triggered mixed reactions across the cricketing world. Critics have called it a “bold gamble,” questioning the wisdom of leaving out key players so close to a major tournament. Others, however, have suggested it could provide valuable exposure to emerging players and allow them to stake their claims before the World Cup squad is finalized.

While the Sri Lanka series was expected to serve as an ideal warm-up, Pakistan will now have to fine-tune their combinations without their leading stars. The absence of Babar, Shaheen, Rizwan, and Rauf means younger players will shoulder greater responsibility, potentially accelerating their development.

Pakistan’s T20 World Cup challenge

Pakistan are placed in Group B alongside India, the USA, Namibia, and the Netherlands at the T20 World Cup, which will be co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka starting in February 2026. The group features a highly anticipated clash with arch-rivals India, making preparation all the more critical.

Pakistan will face Sri Lanka in three T20Is in Dambulla before turning their full focus to the World Cup. Whether the decision to rest senior players proves a masterstroke or a misstep will only become clear in the weeks ahead.