ISLAMABAD: All-rounder Shadab Khan is emerging as the lone high-profile name likely to return early from the Big Bash League (BBL) to strengthen Pakistan’s plans for the short but crucial three-match T20I series against Sri Lanka, starting January 7.
The series is being viewed by selectors as a key checkpoint on the road to the ICC T20 World Cup 2026, particularly with regard to Shadab’s form and fitness.
According to sources within the selection committee, Shadab’s recall is part of a deliberate strategy to closely monitor his match readiness after recent fitness concerns. “There could not be a better opportunity to assess Shadab’s fitness and rhythm than a competitive away series,” a selector told The News, adding that his performances in the BBL—both with bat and ball have been encouraging.
“Yes, we plan to include Shadab Khan in the touring squad for the Sri Lanka series,” the selector confirmed. “However, it will be difficult to recall other senior players who are almost certain starters for the World Cup and are currently committed to the BBL. These include Babar Azam and Shaheen Shah Afridi, while Haris Rauf is also expected to stay back with his franchise, though efforts are being made to explore his availability for the short series.”
With availability a major factor, the selectors are expected to use the Sri Lanka tour to test bench strength and spin resources, tailoring the squad to conditions that traditionally favour slow bowlers. As a result, the final line-up is likely to be spin-heavy, featuring the likes of Mohammad Nawaz, Usman Tariq, Mohammad Abrar and Sufyan Moqeem, all of whom have been shortlisted.
Among the fresh faces, Ahmad Danyal is tipped to be a surprise inclusion. “Ahmad Danyal has the ability to generate reverse swing and offers something different,” the selector revealed. “We have also seriously considered Maaz Sadaqat, who could come in if anyone misses out at the last moment.”
Other youngsters such as Sufyan Moqeem are also expected to benefit, as Pakistan looks to broaden its options ahead of the global event. “The probable squad was finalised almost a week ago. We are now awaiting final instructions from the top regarding which players will be released from the BBL and who will remain with their franchises,” the source added.
The selection committee believes that, barring the three leading players occupied in the BBL, there will be minimal changes between the Sri Lanka touring party and Pakistan’s broader T20 World Cup plans. Notably, January 7 is also the deadline set by the World Cup organisers for submitting a tentative squad, which can be revised until January 23. Any changes beyond that date will require approval from the Tournament Committee.
“If the players under consideration stay fit and perform well in Sri Lanka, I don’t foresee major changes barring the one engaged in the BBL,” the selector said. “The only real concern remains Shadab’s fitness. If he is fully fit and his BBL performances suggest he is, then he is an automatic selection.”
Meanwhile, Salman Ali Agha has already been named captain for the Sri Lanka series. The likely squad is expected to feature a blend of experience and youth, including Sahibzada Farhan, Fakhar Zaman, Saim Ayub, Shadab Khan, Usman Khan, Mohammad Nawaz, Faheem Ashraf, Salman Mirza, Usman Tariq, Ahmad Danyal, Sufyan Moqeem, Maaz Sadaqat, Abdul Samad, with the pace slot to be filled by Haris Rauf or Abbas Afridi, subject to availability.
With the countdown to the T20 World Cup gathering pace, the Sri Lanka series promises to be more than just another bilateral assignment, it could well shape the final blueprint of Pakistan’s World Cup campaign.
