Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha has dropped a strong hint that stability, rather than sweeping changes, will define Pakistan’s squad selection for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, set to be hosted by India and Sri Lanka from February 7.
Since taking over as Pakistan’s T20I skipper earlier this year, Salman has overseen a steady revival in the shortest format. The team’s recent performances, particularly their title-winning run in a home tri-series against Zimbabwe cricket team and Sri Lanka cricket team, have reinforced his belief that the current group is moving in the right direction.
Core group likely to be retained
Speaking on a podcast hosted by the Pakistan Cricket Board, Salman made it clear that Pakistan are unlikely to experiment heavily in the lead-up to the global event. With only a handful of matches left before the World Cup, the focus, he said, will be on consistency and clearly defined roles.
“I don’t think there will be any major changes before the World Cup. This will be the combination,” Salman explained.
“All players have been given their roles, and we will move forward with these roles. We have six matches left before the T20 World Cup, and we can’t afford big changes.”
His comments suggest that the squad which featured in the recent tri-series will form the backbone of Pakistan’s World Cup campaign.
Boost for Babar Azam and Naseem Shah
If Pakistan do stick with the same core, it comes as positive news for senior players such as Babar Azam and Naseem Shah. Both were recalled for the tri-series after a brief period on the sidelines and played key roles in Pakistan’s success.
Their performances appear to have strengthened Salman’s confidence in the squad’s balance, blending experience with emerging talent as Pakistan build momentum ahead of the marquee tournament.
Confidence growing under new leadership
Reflecting on the past few months, Salman noted that the team’s results are finally matching the work being done behind the scenes. Having backed this group for an extended period, he feels Pakistan are now beginning to show the consistency required to challenge the world’s best sides.
“We have played with this group for six months, and the results have started to come,” he said.
The captain also shared his long-term vision, revealing ambitious goals not just for the T20 World Cup but beyond.
“I want us to win the 2026 T20 World Cup and then the 2027 ODI World Cup. Winning both World Cups is my dream.”
Sri Lanka conditions key to preparation
With part of the tournament set to be played in Sri Lanka, Salman believes exposure to local conditions will be crucial. He pointed out that senior players already understand Sri Lankan pitches well, while upcoming bilateral series will help younger cricketers adapt before the World Cup begins.
“Senior players understand Sri Lankan pitches. The Sri Lanka series will be very important for the new players before the World Cup,” he added.
Eyes on progress, not perfection
While satisfied with the team’s direction, Salman admitted there is still work to be done. His message was clear: Pakistan are improving, but the journey is not complete.
“The team is on the right track, but there is still room for improvement. We want Pakistan to reach the level where everyone hopes to see it.”
As Pakistan fine-tunes their preparations, Salman Ali Agha’s emphasis on continuity, clarity of roles, and belief in his squad could prove vital as they chase a second T20 World Cup title on the subcontinent.
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