Sahibzada Farhan to Captain Pakistan at Asian Games
Opening batter Sahibzada Farhan will captain Pakistan’s cricket team at the upcoming Asian Games in Japan, scheduled to run from September 19 to October 3. The 15-member squad features a mix of senior players and four first-time national call-ups, as the side looks to improve upon a disappointing performance at the previous Asian Games in China.
Squad Composition and Key Talent
The selection committee has opted for a relatively young roster for the tournament. Among the notable inclusions is fast bowler Ali Raza, who earned his spot following strong performances in the Pakistan Super League (PSL) over the past two seasons. Raza previously demonstrated his potential at the Under-19 Asia Cup, where his 4-for-42 effort in the final helped secure the trophy for Pakistan against India.
The squad also includes veterans and players with international experience. Abdul Samad, who has five T20I appearances, will serve as vice-captain. Other senior figures expected to feature prominently include Saim Ayub, Sufiyan Moqim, Abrar Ahmed, and wicketkeeper Usman Khan. Additionally, Maaz Sadaqat and Saad Masood have been named to the team, both bringing prior experience from ODI cricket.
The current squad includes four players receiving their first-ever call-up to a national side, marking a significant injection of new talent into the Pakistan setup for the Asian Games.
Strategic Implications for the National Side
With Pakistan’s T20I schedule significantly reduced in comparison to 2025, the Asian Games provide a critical window for players to prove their readiness for the senior national team. This is particularly relevant for Hasan Nawaz and Haider Ali. Both players have faced challenges maintaining their positions in the international setup; Nawaz has not played for Pakistan since November following a difficult Asia Cup, while Ali has struggled to sustain the form he showed early in his T20I career.
The reliance on a younger, less-tested squad suggests a strategy focused on development and depth-chart testing. By giving players like Hasan Nawaz and Haider Ali another opportunity, the management is likely attempting to determine if these players can recapture their previous form or if the team must pivot permanently to younger, emerging talents like Ali Raza to secure future results.
Looking Ahead: Building on Past Lessons
Pakistan enters this tournament aiming to move past the results of the previous Asian Games in China. During that campaign, the team reached the semi-finals but lost to Afghanistan, subsequently failing to secure a medal after a loss to Bangladesh in the bronze medal match. A strong performance in Japan could serve as a necessary reset for the program.
The full squad for the tournament consists of: Sahibzada Farhan (capt), Abdul Samad, 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 (wk).
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is captaining the Pakistan team at the Asian Games?
Opening batter Sahibzada Farhan has been appointed as the captain for the tournament.
What was the outcome of Pakistan’s last Asian Games campaign?
Pakistan did not reach the podium in China; they lost the semi-final to Afghanistan and subsequently lost the bronze medal match to Bangladesh.
Why is this tournament considered significant for players like Hasan Nawaz?
Because the team is playing fewer T20Is this year, the Asian Games serve as a high-stakes opportunity for players to push for a return to the regular T20I side after falling out of favor.
How will the team’s performance in Japan influence the selection strategy for the senior national side in the coming year?