3 Pakistan players to watch out for in T20 World Cup 2026

Pakistan have announced a formidable squad for the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026, which will be co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka. While Pakistan have struggled to find consistency in recent ICC tournaments, the Men in Green will head into the competition with a slightly revamped squad and renewed hope of lifting another global trophy.

Pakistan boasts a rich history in T20 cricket, having won the ICC T20 World Cup in 2009 under the leadership of Younis Khan. However, inconsistency has often hampered

their progress in recent years despite possessing immense individual talent. As they gear up for the 2026 edition, Pakistan will rely heavily on a mix of experienced campaigners and in-form players to make a deep run in the tournament. With that in mind, here are three Pakistan players to watch out for in the T20 World Cup 2026.

Here are 3 Pakistan players to watch out for in T20 World Cup 2026

3. Salman Ali Agha

Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha will be one of the key figures for his side in the marquee event. The middle-order batter has been in sublime form in recent T20Is, scoring at a brisk pace while also shouldering responsibility during difficult situations. Agha has often been the glue holding Pakistan’s batting together, especially when early wickets have fallen.

In the recently concluded T20I series against Australia, Agha scored 120 runs across three matches and played a pivotal role in the hosts' 3-0 series sweep. Overall, he has accumulated 856 runs in 45 T20Is, including six half-centuries. With the captaincy responsibility and his current form, Agha will be expected to lead from the front and anchor Pakistan’s batting campaign.

2. Shaheen Shah Afridi

Shaheen Shah Afridi remains one of Pakistan’s biggest match-winners and a vital cog in their bowling attack. Since bursting onto the international scene as a teenager, Shaheen has consistently delivered with his pace, height and ability to generate steep bounce and late swing. His calm on-field demeanour often masks the intensity and menace he brings with the ball.

Shaheen is Pakistan’s preferred option both in the powerplay and at the death, where his ability to strike early and close out innings is invaluable. In 96 T20Is, he has taken 126 wickets at an average of 21.26 and an economy rate of 7.71, including two four-wicket hauls. His performance with the new ball could be decisive on the Asian pitches.

1Abrar Ahmed

Abrar Ahmed has emerged as a potent spin option for Pakistan, particularly in conditions that offer turn. Although fitness issues initially delayed his rise, Abrar made an immediate impact at the international level with his control, accuracy and wicket-taking ability. He first gained attention during the Pakistan Super League in 2017, well before his international debut.

In T20 cricket, Abrar’s sharp turn and consistent lines make him especially dangerous on spin-friendly pitches in Sri Lanka. In 31 T20Is, he has claimed 40 wickets at an impressive average of 18.67 and an economy rate of 6.77, including one four-wicket haul. His role in the middle overs could prove crucial for Pakistan’s success.