Pakistan’s Squad for Asia Cup 2025 and Tri-Series Revealed

Pakistan have announced a 17-member squad for the Asia Cup 2025 and the T20I tri-series in the UAE against Afghanistan and the hosts, with Salman Ali Agha at the helm. The group blends PSL-seasoned youth with established internationals, set up for conditions in Dubai and Sharjah.

The shape of the side is clear. Pakistan want quick starts in the powerplay, length in the batting, and wicket-taking through the middle overs. Saim Ayub, Fakhar Zaman bring left-handed punch up top, while Sahibzada Farhan will add range and stability.

Mohammad Haris offers tempo and boundary-hitting as a wicketkeeper batter, keeping the run rate healthy through overs 7 to 15 alongside the young talented Hassan Nawaz.

With the ball, Shaheen Afridi and Haris Rauf spearhead the attack, supported by the experienced Hasan Ali and the lively Salman Mirza. Abrar Ahmed’s mystery pairs well with Mohammad Nawaz’s left-arm spin and Sufyan Muqeem’s angles, giving three different looks through the middle where UAE pitches often decide games.

Mohammad Wasim Jr. is also finally back to the international set up after a long absence due to injury.

The calendar is tight. Pakistan first tune up in a T20I tri-series in Sharjah from August 29 to September 7, facing Afghanistan and UAE twice each before the final. The Asia Cup then starts with a quick burst: Oman on September 12, India on September 14, and UAE on September 17. That schedule points to rotation for the quicks during the tri-series and a close look at the second spinner versus seam all-rounder call.

Two watchpoints sit over the build-up. Fakhar Zaman’s hamstring management remains important after his recent niggle. His presence unlocks left-right options in the top three and a floating No. 3 role if Pakistan want to finish hard. The other is leadership rhythm. Under Salman Agha, the selectors have doubled down on role clarity, sharper fielding standards, and match-up discipline.

Full squad: