Sahibzada Farhan named captain as Pakistan finalize Asian Games squad for 2026

Pakistan named Sahibzada Farhan as captain for the 2026 Asian Games after selecting a 15-member squad featuring a mix of experienced and emerging players.

Key additions to the squad Fast bowler Ali Raza earned a spot in the squad after outstanding performances in the PSL over the last two seasons and a brilliant display at the Under-19 Asia Cup last year, where he took four wickets for 42 runs in the final to help Pakistan defeat India and win the trophy. Maaz Sadaqat and Saad Masood, both former ODI players for Pakistan, have also been included in the 15-member group. Senior campaigners Saim Ayub, Sufiyan Moqim, Abrar Ahmed, and Usman Khan complete the line-up, while Abdul Samad, with only five T20Is to his name, has been appointed vice-captain. ## Opportunities for overlooked players With Pakistan scheduled to play far fewer T20Is in 2026 compared to 2025, the tournament offers a chance to impress selectors for a regular call-up into the national T20I side. Hasan Nawaz is among those eyeing a return after slipping out of favor following a poor Asia Cup last year, having not featured for Pakistan since November. The experienced Hasan Nawaz shares the side with Haider Ali, another player who enjoyed early success before his T20I career tapered off after an initial bright phase. ## Recent campaign failures Pakistan endured a tough campaign at the previous Asian Games in China, where they were eliminated in the semi-final stage by Afghanistan. They then missed out on a medal entirely, suffering a loss to Bangladesh in the bronze medal play-off. The team will look to bounce back strongly in the upcoming edition with a revamped squad led by Sahibzada Farhan. ## Full squad announcement The official 15-member Pakistan squad for the 2026 Asian Games has been announced, with Sahibzada Farhan leading the side as captain. Abdul Samad serves as vice-captain, while Abrar Ahmed, Ahmed Daniyal, Akif Javed, Ali Raza, Arafat Minhas, Haider Ali, Hasan Nawaz, Maaz Sadaqat, Mohammad Salman Mirza, Saad Masood, Saim Ayub, Sufiyan Moqim, and Usman Khan (wk) complete the roster.