Pakistan Announce Squad for Asian Games 2026, Sahibzada Farhan to Lead Young Side

Pakistan have officially announced their squad for the men’s cricket competition at the Asian Games 2026, with experienced batter Sahibzada Farhan appointed as captain for the prestigious event in Japan. The tournament will take place in Aichi-Nagoya from September 19 to October 4, while the men’s T20 cricket competition is scheduled to begin on September 24.

The 10-team T20 tournament will be held at Korogi Athletic Park in Aichi Prefecture, with the medal matches set for October 3. Pakistan’s selectors have opted for a youthful squad featuring a mix of emerging talents and established performers as they aim for success on the continental stage.

Farhan Named Captain, Abdul Samad Vice-Captain

Top-order batter Sahibzada Farhan will lead the national side during the competition. The 30-year-old has been one of Pakistan’s most consistent performers in the shortest format and brings valuable experience to the squad. Abdul Samad has been appointed vice-captain and will serve as Farhan’s deputy throughout the tournament.

Four Uncapped Players Included

Pakistan’s squad includes four players who are yet to make their T20 International debut. Akif Javed, Ali Raza, Maaz Sadaqat and Saad Masood have earned places in the 15-member squad, highlighting the selectors’ focus on developing future talent and providing opportunities to promising cricketers.

Pakistan Squad for Asian Games 2026

Sahibzada Farhan (Captain), Abdul Samad (Vice-Captain), Abrar Ahmed, Ahmed Daniyal, Akif Javed, Ali Raza, Arafat Minhas, Haider Ali, Hasan Nawaz, Maaz Sadaqat, Mohammad Salman Mirza, Saad Masood, Saim Ayub, Sufyan Moqim and Usman Khan (Wicketkeeper).

National Camp Ahead of Tournament

Preparations for the Asian Games are already underway, with most members of the squad set to participate in the National Cricket Academy’s white-ball training camp in Lahore. The camp is expected to help players fine-tune their skills before the team travels to Japan for the competition.

Coaching and Support Staff

Pakistan’s coaching staff for the tournament will be headed by Mike Hesson as head coach. He will be assisted by bowling coach Ashley Noffke and fielding coach Shane McDermott, along with a dedicated support team responsible for fitness, analysis and player welfare.

Pakistan Eye Asian Games Glory

With a balanced combination of experienced campaigners and exciting young prospects, Pakistan will be aiming to make a strong impact at the Asian Games 2026. The tournament offers an important platform for emerging players to showcase their abilities while representing the country on a major international stage.