The Men’s National Selection Committee has just dropped some exciting news that’ll have every cricket fan on the edge of their seat. Pakistan is set to battle it out in two back-to-back tournaments in the UAE – first up is a thrilling T20I Tri-Series against Afghanistan and UAE, followed by the much-anticipated Asia Cup 2025. And guess what? We’ve got all the inside story on the squad, schedule, and key matchups you won’t want to miss!
Selectors Back Young Talent, Coach Hesson Explains Squad Choices
The selection committee has shown strong faith in Pakistan’s emerging players. Chief selector Aaqib Javed explained the thinking behind the squad:
“Almost every youngster has repaid the trust with strong performances recently. We have a few really good options in the top order, and we would like to continue with these youngsters”: Selector Aaqib Javed 🗣️
Head coach Mike Hesson provided additional insight about the batting lineup:
“Right now, the guys we’ve picked are doing an excellent job. Players like Sahibzada Farhan, Saim, and Fakhar have fully earned their spot. Babar has been asked to improve in some areas, particularly against spin and in terms of his strike rate, and he’s working hard on these aspects. Players like Babar have an opportunity to show they are improving in T20s. He’s too good a player not to be considered”: Head Coach Mike Hesson🗣️
Who’s in the Team?
Pakistan will be led by Salman Ali Agha, they have a mix of experienced players and players untried at this level. Here is the full 17 player squad:
- Batters: Fakhar Zaman, Khushdil Shah, Sahibzada Farhan, Saim Ayub
- All rounders: Salman Ali Agha (Captain), Faheem Ashraf, Hussain Talat, Mohammad Nawaz
- Bowlers: Shaheen Afridi, Haris Rauf, Hasan Ali, Abrar Ahmed, Mohammad Waseem Jr, Salman Mirza, Sufyan Moqim
- Wicketkeepers: Mohammad Haris
- New Faces: Hasan Nawaz
Notable Exclusions:
Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan have been rested for these tournaments, with selectors aiming to test bench strength ahead of the T20 World Cup. A PCB insider confirmed: “Both remain central to our long-term plans but we want to evaluate alternatives in high-pressure games.
Players to Watch
Shaheen Afridi – Our fast-bowling gun that can take any batting order apart.
Fakhar Zaman – When he is rolling, the runs come fast!
Mohammad Haris – A young and fearless batsman that can flip the game.
Salman Ali Agha – The new captain with a cool head and useful all-rounder.
Tri-Series Schedule (Sharjah Cricket Stadium)
Before the Asia Cup, Pakistan will be playing in a Tri-Series against Afghanistan and the UAE. Match time is 7 PM UAE time for all matches.
- Aug 29 – Pakistan vs Afghanistan
- Aug 30 – Pakistan vs UAE
- Sep 2 – Pakistan vs Afghanistan
- Sep 4 – Pakistan vs UAE
- Sep 7 – Final
This will be a great warm-up before the big Asia Cup matches!
Asia Cup 2025 – Pakistan’s Matches
The Asia Cup will be held in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, while Pakistan is in group A along with India, Oman and the UAE.
Group Stage Fixtures (All in Dubai)
- Sep 12 – Pakistan vs Oman (6 PM)
- Sep 14 – Pakistan vs India (6 PM) – The match everyone’s waiting for!
- Sep 17 – Pakistan vs UAE (6 PM)
If Pakistan qualifies, they’ll play in the Super Fours (Sep 20-26) and possibly the Final on Sep 28.
FAQs – Quick Answers
A: Salman Ali Agha will lead in both tournaments, marking his first major assignment as skipper.
A: Mark your calendar – September 14, 6 PM (UAE time) in Dubai.
A: Details aren’t out yet, but expect broadcasts on PTV Sports, Ten Sports, or streaming platforms like Daraz or Tapmad.
Final Thoughts
This is a thrilling month in Pakistan’s cricketing future! With a well-balanced squad and exciting fixtures coming up, the target will be to dominate both the Tri-Series and the Asia Cup. The game against India is the one all fans are looking forward to – mark your calendars!
Stay tuned to CricProZone.com for live updates, match analysis, and exclusive insights.
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