Rawalpindi: Lake City Panthers and Nurpur Lions are gearing up for the Bahria Town Champions T20 Cup, which starts on December 7 at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium. Both teams are not only eyeing the championship title but are also focused on developing players for higher-level competitions.

According to Pakistan Cricket Board, Saqlain Mushtaq, who previously coached Pakistan to significant achievements in the ICC T20 World Cups, is confident that his players will adapt well from the 50-over format to the T20 format. Shadab Khan will lead the Panthers’ strong batting line-up, which includes notable players like Sharjeel Khan, Abdul Wahid Bangalzai, and Umar Siddiq. The team will also rely on Pakistan stars such as Haider Ali, Danish Aziz, and Mubasir Khan to provide late-inning momentum. The pace attack, though inexperienced, holds promise with Ahmed Bashir, Mohammad Ibtisam, and Irfanullah Shah showcasing their talent.

Nurpur Lions, under the mentorship of Waqar Younis, are focused on addressing weaknesses in their T20 strategy, particularly in the lower order’s ability to score in the slog overs. The team features promising bowlers like Musa Khan, Shahid Aziz, and Mohammad Salman, along with Hunain Shah, who aims to make a comeback after injury. The Lions’ batting prowess will be strengthened by players like Hasan Nawaz, Mohammad Taha, and Imam-ul-Haq, with Aamer Yamin providing experience as an all-rounder.

The provisional squads for both teams have been released, with final selections to be announced soon. The tournament is expected to offer a platform for emerging talent to make a mark and potentially contribute to Pakistan’s national cricket teams.