Lahore: All-rounder Shadab Khan has been named in Pakistan’s 15-member T20I squad for an upcoming series against Sri Lanka, marking his return to international cricket. The series, scheduled for January, will be played at the Rangiri Dambulla International Cricket Stadium in Dambulla. Salman Ali Agha, who has played a record number of T20I matches for Pakistan this year, will continue as captain.

Khan’s return follows a period of recovery from shoulder surgery earlier this year. After completing a rehabilitation program at the National Cricket Academy, he has been playing in the Big Bash League in Australia, demonstrating his readiness for international competition.

The squad also sees the inclusion of uncapped wicketkeeper-batter Khawaja Nafay. The 23-year-old has been part of the Pakistan Shaheens setup and has made a mark in domestic T20 matches with an impressive strike rate.

The series against Sri Lanka will serve as a crucial preparation for Pakistan ahead of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka. Pakistan’s matches in the World Cup are scheduled to take place in Colombo.

The team management for the series includes a blend of experienced coaches and support staff, with Mike Hesson as head coach and Ashley Noffke as the bowling coach. The team is set to depart for Sri Lanka in early January, with matches scheduled for January 7, 9, and 11.

The squad for the series includes key players such as Fakhar Zaman, Mohammad Wasim Jnr, and Naseem Shah, among others. The series provides an opportunity for Pakistan to finalize their World Cup squad and build momentum ahead of the global tournament.