The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is likely to announce the national squad for the upcoming tour of Sri Lanka in the first week of January, as selectors intensify discussions ahead of international commitments, according to The Express Tribune.
Pakistan are scheduled to play a three-match T20I series against Sri Lanka on January 7, 9 and 11 in Dambulla.
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The series has gained added importance as it comes at the time when Pakistan must submit its preliminary squad for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026.
According to the report, the selection committee is holding detailed meetings to strike the right balance between experience, fitness, and workload management.
One major development expected from these talks is the return of all-rounder Shadab Khan, who is close to making a comeback after overcoming recent fitness issues.
Shadab has shown encouraging form in the ongoing Big Bash League (BBL), and his all-round skills are seen as vital for Pakistan’s T20 plans, especially with the World Cup approaching.
Shadab has played three matches in the BBL so far, scoring 75 runs at an average of 37.50 with a strike rate of 136.36, while also taking six wickets at an average of 15.50 and an economy rate of 8.45.
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Several senior players, including Shaheen Shah Afridi, Babar Azam, Haris Rauf, Mohammad Rizwan and Hasan Ali, have been granted No Objection Certificates (NOCs) to complete their full BBL commitments.
Their extended stay in Australia has prompted selectors to look at younger options for the Sri Lanka series.
Emerging players such as Abdul Samad and Maaz Sadaqat are among those being considered, along with other domestic performers who have delivered consistent displays in recent months.
The tour is expected to provide an opportunity to test Pakistan’s bench strength and expand the T20 talent pool.
Beyond the Sri Lanka series, the PCB faces a crucial deadline, as Pakistan must submit a provisional squad for the T20 World Cup before January 6.
While changes can be made until February 1, the initial list will set the foundation for Pakistan’s World Cup preparations.
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While hosts India and Sri Lanka have already named their squads for the global event.
The Sri Lanka tour is therefore being viewed as a key step in shaping Pakistan’s World Cup combination, particularly in identifying dependable all-rounders and backup options.
As selection meetings continue and decisions draw closer, an official squad announcement is expected in the coming days.
