Dubai: Pakistan is set to compete in the Asia Cup, aiming for their third title when the eight-team tournament begins on September 9 in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Previously victorious in 2000 and 2012, Pakistan seeks its first T20I Asia Cup win.
Following a successful tri-series at Sharjah Cricket Stadium, Pakistan hopes to continue its winning momentum. The Asia Cup, in its 17th edition, has seen two previous T20I formats, with Pakistan reaching the final in 2022 but losing to Sri Lanka.
The 17-member squad boasts experience, with 10 players having participated in past Asia Cup events. Notably, all-rounder Mohammad Nawaz, player of the tournament in the recent tri-series, is a key player for Pakistan.
Pakistan is grouped with India, Oman, and the UAE. Their opening match is against Oman on September 12 at Dubai Cricket Stadium, followed by a high-stakes game against India on September 14. The group stage concludes with a match against the UAE on September 17.
The tournament format sees the top two teams from each group advancing to the Super Four, with the final scheduled for September 28 in Dubai.
Under head coach Mike Hesson, Pakistan has won 10 out of 14 T20Is, including series victories over Bangladesh and the West Indies, and the recent tri-series triumph.
Hesson praised the team’s progress, highlighting key performances from Fakhar Zaman and Mohammad Nawaz. He emphasized the importance of focus and adaptability in the challenging tournament group.
The squad includes: Salman Ali Agha (captain), Abrar Ahmed, Faheem Ashraf, Fakhar Zaman, Haris Rauf, Hasan Ali, Hasan Nawaz, Hussain Talat, Khushdil Shah, Mohammad Haris (wicket-keeper), Mohammad Nawaz, Mohammad Waseem Jnr, Sahibzada Farhan, Saim Ayub, Salman Mirza, Shaheen Shah Afridi, and Sufyan Moqim.
With the tournament set to test Pakistan against regional rivals, the team is focused on advancing beyond the group stage and securing their first T20I Asia Cup title.