Pakistan are set to start their three-Test series in England on Wednesday (Aug 19) in Leeds but skipper Babar Azam's participation remains doubtful. Babar, who had recently taken over Test captaincy from Shaan Masood, is nursing an impact injury on right hand. Pakistan will be making a late selection call about Babar's participation and will follow the medical advice Mohammad Abbas during a press conference after the team arrived in Leeds of Monday (Aug 17). Along with Babar, Shan Masood is also recovering from an injury, leaving him doubtful as well.<h2>What happened to Babar Azam?</h2>Babar had suffered an impact injury on his right hand during the second Test of recently-concluded series against West Indies. He, nonetheless, took part in Pakistan's warm match against Professional County Club Select XI in Beckenham. The batter was unlucky again to get hit on the same hand, prompting him to get retired hurt and not take any further part in the match, which a PCB statement called "precautionary measure."Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-sl-jadeja-joins-elite-club-with-4-000-test-runs-and-350-wickets-1786965050213">IND vs SL: Jadeja joins elite club with 4,000 Test runs and 350 wickets</a>Speaking on Babar's participation in the first Test, Abbas confirmed during the press conference that "whether he plays or not will be a decision taken on match day.""He did a few throwdowns and some batting practice today. But we'll have to follow medical advice for it," Abbas added.<h2>What about Shan Masood?</h2>Former Pak skipper Masood suffered a fractured finger during the first Test against West Indies and did not participate in the warm up match. According to Abbas, however, the prospect of him playing the first Test is brighter."With Shan, too, we're just going to rely on the medical advice," Abbas said. "Shan practiced for the whole session and looked very good."<h2>Who leads Pakistan if Babar doesn't play?</h2>Babar's absence from the first Test against England could leave a leadership vacuum for the Pakistan side. During the warm-up match, Pakistan's T20I skipper Salman Agha led the side after Babar was retired out but he hasn't done the same in an international Test yet. He could very well end up being the captain if Babar doesn't play.

Pakistan face a major injury scare ahead of their first Test against England in Leeds. Skipper Babar Azam (hand injury) and Shan Masood are doubtful, with Salman Agha potentially stepping in to lead.

Pakistan are set to start their three-Test series in England on Wednesday (Aug 19) in Leeds but skipper Babar Azam's participation remains doubtful. Babar, who had recently taken over Test captaincy from Shaan Masood, is nursing an impact injury on right hand. Pakistan will be making a late selection call about Babar's participation and will follow the medical advice Mohammad Abbas during a press conference after the team arrived in Leeds of Monday (Aug 17). Along with Babar, Shan Masood is also recovering from an injury, leaving him doubtful as well. What happened to Babar Azam? Babar had suffered an impact injury on his right hand during the second Test of recently-concluded series against West Indies. He, nonetheless, took part in Pakistan's warm match against Professional County Club Select XI in Beckenham. The batter was unlucky again to get hit on the same hand, prompting him to get retired hurt and not take any further part in the match, which a PCB statement called "precautionary measure." Also Read - IND vs SL: Jadeja joins elite club with 4,000 Test runs and 350 wickets Speaking on Babar's participation in the first Test, Abbas confirmed during the press conference that "whether he plays or not will be a decision taken on match day." "He did a few throwdowns and some batting practice today. But we'll have to follow medical advice for it," Abbas added. What about Shan Masood? Former Pak skipper Masood suffered a fractured finger during the first Test against West Indies and did not participate in the warm up match. According to Abbas, however, the prospect of him playing the first Test is brighter. "With Shan, too, we're just going to rely on the medical advice," Abbas said. "Shan practiced for the whole session and looked very good." Who leads Pakistan if Babar doesn't play? Babar's absence from the first Test against England could leave a leadership vacuum for the Pakistan side. During the warm-up match, Pakistan's T20I skipper Salman Agha led the side after Babar was retired out but he hasn't done the same in an international Test yet. He could very well end up being the captain if Babar doesn't play.

Pakistan face a major injury scare ahead of their first Test against England in Leeds. Skipper Babar Azam (hand injury) and Shan Masood are doubtful, with Salman Agha potentially stepping in to lead.

ENG vs PAK: Who will lead Pakistan? Babar Azam's injury threatens participation in opening Test

It will be “D-Day” for Pakistan on Friday (Feb 26) as England and New Zealand square off at the R.Premadasa Stadium in Colombo in the Super 8 clash of the T20 World Cup 2026. With fate not in their hands and belief in their hearts, Pakistan will be at England’s mercy if they are to retain any chances of playing in the semifinal of the tournament. So here’s what needs to happen for the 2009 T20 World Cup champions if they are to qualify for the semis.<h2>What is the current scenario?</h2>At the time of writing on Thursday (Feb 26), Pakistan sit third in Group 2 of the Super 8 and need a huge favour from England. Pakistan have one point with one match in hand against Sri Lanka on Saturday, while England (already qualified with four points) and New Zealand (with three points) square off on Friday. In this scenario, if New Zealand beat England, the former will book its place in the semis and end Pakistan’s quest. This will also mean Pakistan vs Sri Lanka (already eliminated) will be a dead-rubber clash on Saturday.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/meet-indians-to-score-most-runs-in-each-of-last-5-t20-world-cups-ft-virat-kohli-kl-rahul-rohit-sharma-2026-t20-world-cup-1768479871185">Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli</a>&nbsp;For Pakistan to qualify, England must beat New Zealand by a big margin, which will keep the Kiwis at three points after playing all their Super 8 matches. On the other hand, Pakistan should beat Sri Lanka by a big margin, meaning they will also end their campaign on three points.&nbsp;According to ICC guidelines, the teams ending on the same points will be differentiated on the basis of head-to-head records. However, since the New Zealand vs Pakistan match was washed out, the team with the better net run rate will go through.&nbsp;As things stand, no specific win margin can be determined for Pakistan as New Zealand and England are yet to face.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-chris-gayle-to-brendon-mccullum-5-batters-to-score-fastest-t20-world-cup-hundreds-rilee-rossouw-ahmed-shehzad-1768553361691">From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds</a>&nbsp;Possible scenario 1If England score 200 and New Zealand lose by 100 runs, New Zealand will have an NRR of -1.065. In this case, Pakistan will simply have to win their match against Sri Lanka on Saturday and not worry about the NRR.&nbsp;Possible scenario 2If England score 150 and New Zealand lose by 10 runs, New Zealand will have an NRR of 1.275. In this case, Pakistan will have to score 200 in their match against Sri Lanka and win by a 60-run margin and attain an NRR higher than that of the Kiwis.&nbsp;Note: The scenarios are assumptions and not final values and will be only effective in case New Zealand lose to England.

At the time of writing on Thursday, Pakistan sit third in Group 2 of the Super 8 and need a huge favour from England. Pakistan have one point with one match in hand against Sri Lanka on Saturday, while England (already qualified with 4 points) and New Zealand (with 3 points) square off. 

It will be “D-Day” for Pakistan on Friday (Feb 26) as England and New Zealand square off at the R.Premadasa Stadium in Colombo in the Super 8 clash of the T20 World Cup 2026. With fate not in their hands and belief in their hearts, Pakistan will be at England’s mercy if they are to retain any chances of playing in the semifinal of the tournament. So here’s what needs to happen for the 2009 T20 World Cup champions if they are to qualify for the semis. What is the current scenario? At the time of writing on Thursday (Feb 26), Pakistan sit third in Group 2 of the Super 8 and need a huge favour from England. Pakistan have one point with one match in hand against Sri Lanka on Saturday, while England (already qualified with four points) and New Zealand (with three points) square off on Friday. In this scenario, if New Zealand beat England, the former will book its place in the semis and end Pakistan’s quest. This will also mean Pakistan vs Sri Lanka (already eliminated) will be a dead-rubber clash on Saturday. ALSO READ | Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli For Pakistan to qualify, England must beat New Zealand by a big margin, which will keep the Kiwis at three points after playing all their Super 8 matches. On the other hand, Pakistan should beat Sri Lanka by a big margin, meaning they will also end their campaign on three points. According to ICC guidelines, the teams ending on the same points will be differentiated on the basis of head-to-head records. However, since the New Zealand vs Pakistan match was washed out, the team with the better net run rate will go through. As things stand, no specific win margin can be determined for Pakistan as New Zealand and England are yet to face. ALSO READ | From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds Possible scenario 1 If England score 200 and New Zealand lose by 100 runs, New Zealand will have an NRR of -1.065. In this case, Pakistan will simply have to win their match against Sri Lanka on Saturday and not worry about the NRR. Possible scenario 2 If England score 150 and New Zealand lose by 10 runs, New Zealand will have an NRR of 1.275. In this case, Pakistan will have to score 200 in their match against Sri Lanka and win by a 60-run margin and attain an NRR higher than that of the Kiwis. Note: The scenarios are assumptions and not final values and will be only effective in case New Zealand lose to England.

At the time of writing on Thursday, Pakistan sit third in Group 2 of the Super 8 and need a huge favour from England. Pakistan have one point with one match in hand against Sri Lanka on Saturday, while England (already qualified with 4 points) and New Zealand (with 3 points) square off.&nbsp;

T20 World Cup 2026: Pakistan at England's mercy! Here's how Salman Agha's men can still qualify for semifinal

Pakistan, after much drama about their participation, start their T20 World Cup 2026 campaign against Netherlands on Saturday (Feb 7) at SSC in Colombo, Sri Lanka. Pakistan skipper Salman Agha, however, has not confirmed outright if former skipper Babar Azam and veteran batter Fakhar Zaman will be part of Playing XI in the opening match. Babar was recalled in October last year after being dropped for 10 months from the squad. Fakhar, on the other hand, has not been able to cross 10 runs in the last five innings. Salman said that the selection will be based on 'what's best for the team.'<h2>Salman declines to confirm spot for Babar and Fakhar</h2>"We'll only play who [is] the best for the team. Fakhar in the last ten years has done amazingly well, same [with] Babar, and I support them fully. But what's best for the team is what we'll play," said Salman on the eve of the T20 World Cup 2026 opening match.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-world-cup-2026-pacer-josh-hazlewood-out-in-major-blow-for-australia-1770360268836">T20 World Cup 2026 | Major blow for Australia as star player out with injury</a>Speaking about Babar's form, Salman: "He has been working on his game, because he knows he needs to up his game. Which is good. If the batter knows and he's trying, that's all you can do. And he's a very, very key player for us in these conditions. Because he's someone who will give us stability, that's what his role is going to be… If he's in form and scoring runs, Pakistan will mostly win games."<h2>Pakistan squad and match schedule in T20 World Cup 2026</h2>Pakistan are in Group A along with India, Netherlands, Namibia and USA. After their campaign opener vs Netherlands on Feb 7, they next play USA on Feb 10. Pakistan are scheduled to play India on Feb 15 but have the boycott of the match. They end the group stage fixtures against Namibia on Feb 18. Pakistan play all their matches in Sri Lanka.Pak squad for T20 WC: Salman Ali Agha (c), Abrar Ahmed, Babar Azam, Faheem Ashraf, Fakhar Zaman, Khawaja Nafay, Mohammad Nawaz, Mohammad Salman Mirza, Naseem Shah, Sahibzada Farhan, Saim Ayub, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Shadab Khan, Usman Khan and Usman Tariq

Pak skipper Salman has not confirmed outright if former skipper Babar Azam and veteran batter Fakhar Zaman will be part of Playing XI in their T20 World Cup 2026 opening match against Netherland on Feb 7. Salman said that the selection will be based on 'what's best for the team.'

Pakistan, after much drama about their participation, start their T20 World Cup 2026 campaign against Netherlands on Saturday (Feb 7) at SSC in Colombo, Sri Lanka. Pakistan skipper Salman Agha, however, has not confirmed outright if former skipper Babar Azam and veteran batter Fakhar Zaman will be part of Playing XI in the opening match. Babar was recalled in October last year after being dropped for 10 months from the squad. Fakhar, on the other hand, has not been able to cross 10 runs in the last five innings. Salman said that the selection will be based on 'what's best for the team.' Salman declines to confirm spot for Babar and Fakhar "We'll only play who [is] the best for the team. Fakhar in the last ten years has done amazingly well, same [with] Babar, and I support them fully. But what's best for the team is what we'll play," said Salman on the eve of the T20 World Cup 2026 opening match. Also Read: T20 World Cup 2026 | Major blow for Australia as star player out with injury Speaking about Babar's form, Salman: "He has been working on his game, because he knows he needs to up his game. Which is good. If the batter knows and he's trying, that's all you can do. And he's a very, very key player for us in these conditions. Because he's someone who will give us stability, that's what his role is going to be… If he's in form and scoring runs, Pakistan will mostly win games." Pakistan squad and match schedule in T20 World Cup 2026 Pakistan are in Group A along with India, Netherlands, Namibia and USA. After their campaign opener vs Netherlands on Feb 7, they next play USA on Feb 10. Pakistan are scheduled to play India on Feb 15 but have the boycott of the match. They end the group stage fixtures against Namibia on Feb 18. Pakistan play all their matches in Sri Lanka. Pak squad for T20 WC: Salman Ali Agha (c), Abrar Ahmed, Babar Azam, Faheem Ashraf, Fakhar Zaman, Khawaja Nafay, Mohammad Nawaz, Mohammad Salman Mirza, Naseem Shah, Sahibzada Farhan, Saim Ayub, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Shadab Khan, Usman Khan and Usman Tariq

Pak skipper Salman has not confirmed outright if former skipper Babar Azam and veteran batter Fakhar Zaman will be part of Playing XI in their T20 World Cup 2026 opening match against Netherland on Feb 7. Salman said that the selection will be based on 'what's best for the team.'

T20 World Cup 2026 | 'Needs to up his game': Pak skipper Salman on Babar Azam's place in Playing XI

The 2026 T20 World Cup will start on Saturday (Feb 7), with India and Sri Lanka co-hosting the tournament. Ahead of the start of the competition, Pakistan captain Agha Ali addressed the media at the captains’ day press conference, where he finally broke his silence on the controversy surrounding the India vs Pakistan clash, scheduled for Feb 15 at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo. He said that the team’s decision not to play against India in the T20 World Cup 2026 was made by the government, not by the players. He further explained that the players have no control over the matter and must follow official instructions.&nbsp;&nbsp;The highly anticipated match is going to be uncertain after the Pakistan government announced a boycott. According to media reports, the decision is being linked to the support for Bangladesh, who was ousted of the World Cup after they refused to play their matches in India, saying there were security concerns.&nbsp;&nbsp;“The India game is not in our control. It’s the government’s and the PCB’s decision and we respect that. Whatever they are going to say, we will do that,” Agha said during the captain’s conference.&nbsp;&nbsp;“If we have to play them again in the semifinal or final, we will have to go back to them and act on their advice,” he added.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/-we-haven-t-refused-to-play-against-pakistan-suryakumar-yadav-on-ind-vs-pak-t20-world-cup-2026-match-1770289019296">'We haven’t refused to play against Pakistan': Suryakumar Yadav on IND vs PAK T20 World Cup 2026 match</a><h2>What Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif said on boycott</h2>Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also supported the boycott against India, calling it a very appropriate decision and added that the Pakistan wanted to stand firmly with Bangladesh and emphasised that politics should not be mixed with sports.&nbsp;&nbsp;“We have taken a very clear stand on the T20 World Cup that we won’t play the match against India because there should be no politics on the sports field,” Sharif stated after a government meeting. “We have taken a very considered stance, and we should completely stand by Bangladesh, and I think this is a very appropriate decision. We are with Bangladesh,” he added. &nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/mustafizur-rahman-embroiled-in-ipl-controversy-joins-lahore-qalandars-ahead-of-psl-2026-1770289098257">Bangladesh pacer Mustafizur Rahman joins Lahore Qalandars ahead of PSL 2026</a>&nbsp;Few days earlier, Agha had made similar remarks that he said today at the captains’ day press conference ahead of theT20 World Cup 2026. &nbsp;&nbsp;“We are going to the World Cup. The decision not to play against India isn’t ours, so we cannot do anything about it. Whatever our government, the PCB chief tells us to do, we will do that only,” Agha told reporters after the third T20I against Australia on Sunday.

The upcoming T20 World Cup 2026 will be the 10th edition of the tournament, which takes place in every two years. Pakistan are placed in Group A with India, the Netherlands, Namibia and the USA.

The 2026 T20 World Cup will start on Saturday (Feb 7), with India and Sri Lanka co-hosting the tournament. Ahead of the start of the competition, Pakistan captain Agha Ali addressed the media at the captains’ day press conference, where he finally broke his silence on the controversy surrounding the India vs Pakistan clash, scheduled for Feb 15 at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo. He said that the team’s decision not to play against India in the T20 World Cup 2026 was made by the government, not by the players. He further explained that the players have no control over the matter and must follow official instructions. The highly anticipated match is going to be uncertain after the Pakistan government announced a boycott. According to media reports, the decision is being linked to the support for Bangladesh, who was ousted of the World Cup after they refused to play their matches in India, saying there were security concerns. “The India game is not in our control. It’s the government’s and the PCB’s decision and we respect that. Whatever they are going to say, we will do that,” Agha said during the captain’s conference. “If we have to play them again in the semifinal or final, we will have to go back to them and act on their advice,” he added. Also Read - 'We haven’t refused to play against Pakistan': Suryakumar Yadav on IND vs PAK T20 World Cup 2026 match What Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif said on boycott Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also supported the boycott against India, calling it a very appropriate decision and added that the Pakistan wanted to stand firmly with Bangladesh and emphasised that politics should not be mixed with sports. “We have taken a very clear stand on the T20 World Cup that we won’t play the match against India because there should be no politics on the sports field,” Sharif stated after a government meeting. “We have taken a very considered stance, and we should completely stand by Bangladesh, and I think this is a very appropriate decision. We are with Bangladesh,” he added. Also Read - Bangladesh pacer Mustafizur Rahman joins Lahore Qalandars ahead of PSL 2026 Few days earlier, Agha had made similar remarks that he said today at the captains’ day press conference ahead of the T20 World Cup 2026. “We are going to the World Cup. The decision not to play against India isn’t ours, so we cannot do anything about it. Whatever our government, the PCB chief tells us to do, we will do that only,” Agha told reporters after the third T20I against Australia on Sunday.

The upcoming T20 World Cup 2026 will be the 10th edition of the tournament, which takes place in every two years. Pakistan are placed in Group A with India, the Netherlands, Namibia and the USA.

'India game is not in our control': Salman Agha breaks silence on boycotting T20 World Cup clash

Pakistan T20I skipper Salman Ali Agha has said that the decision to not play against India in upcoming T20 World Cup 2026 group stage match has not been taken by them (players). Agha's statement came after Pakistan beat Australian in the thrid T20I of the three-match series on Sunday (Feb 1) - the same day when the Government of Pakistan announced their decision to partake in the tournament but 'not taking field' against India on Feb 15 in Colombo in a Group A fixture. The ICC, meanwhile, has warned the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-world-cup-2026-itself-a-member-and-beneficiary-icc-warns-pakistan-of-implications-of-not-playing-india-1769995014124">'long-term implications' of their decision</a> to boycott India match.<h2>Pakistan skipper reacts to government's decision to boycott India match in T20 World Cup 2026</h2>Pakistan cricket chief Mohsin Naqvi, after Scotland replaced Bangladesh, had said that a decision on Pak's participation will be taken after consultation with the national government. The decision came and shocked everyone, maybe including skipper Agha as well.Also Check: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/t20-world-cup-2026-check-final-squads-of-all-20-teams-1770006331777">T20 World Cup 2026 | All squads out - except Sri Lanka</a>“We are going to the World Cup. The decision not to play against India isn’t ours, so we cannot do anything about it. Whatever our government, the PCB chief tells us to do, we will do that only,” Agha told reporters after the third T20I against Australia on Sunday (Feb 1).Pakistan's decision to boycott India's match is most likely to protest the ICC's decision to replace Bangladesh with Scotland. The Asian country was replaced after their demand to shift matches outside India because of security concerns was rejected by the ICC. The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) remained firm on their decision and even accused ICC of playing favorites.<h2><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-world-cup-2026-not-taking-field-vs-india-how-will-pakistan-s-boycott-affect-both-teams-1769998277372">What happens to India after Pakistan boycotts T20 World Cup 2026 match</a></h2>According to the rules, India will get full points for the match if any opposition, in this case Pakistan, decides to not take field. This means, India will be given the points without having to play, thanks to Pakistan, which can very well put them in the next round of Super Eight. However, it remains to be seen if Pakistan, shall it manages to reach Super Eight or Final (vs India), abandon the boycott policy and play against the arch-rivals ot simply handover the points.

Pakistan cricket chief Mohsin Naqvi, after Scotland replaced Bangladesh, had said that a decision on Pak's participation will be taken after consultation with the national government. The decision came and shocked everyone, maybe including skipper Agha as well.

Pakistan T20I skipper Salman Ali Agha has said that the decision to not play against India in upcoming T20 World Cup 2026 group stage match has not been taken by them (players). Agha's statement came after Pakistan beat Australian in the thrid T20I of the three-match series on Sunday (Feb 1) - the same day when the Government of Pakistan announced their decision to partake in the tournament but 'not taking field' against India on Feb 15 in Colombo in a Group A fixture. The ICC, meanwhile, has warned the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) of 'long-term implications' of their decision to boycott India match. Pakistan skipper reacts to government's decision to boycott India match in T20 World Cup 2026 Pakistan cricket chief Mohsin Naqvi, after Scotland replaced Bangladesh, had said that a decision on Pak's participation will be taken after consultation with the national government. The decision came and shocked everyone, maybe including skipper Agha as well. Also Check: T20 World Cup 2026 | All squads out - except Sri Lanka “We are going to the World Cup. The decision not to play against India isn’t ours, so we cannot do anything about it. Whatever our government, the PCB chief tells us to do, we will do that only,” Agha told reporters after the third T20I against Australia on Sunday (Feb 1). Pakistan's decision to boycott India's match is most likely to protest the ICC's decision to replace Bangladesh with Scotland. The Asian country was replaced after their demand to shift matches outside India because of security concerns was rejected by the ICC. The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) remained firm on their decision and even accused ICC of playing favorites. What happens to India after Pakistan boycotts T20 World Cup 2026 match According to the rules, India will get full points for the match if any opposition, in this case Pakistan, decides to not take field. This means, India will be given the points without having to play, thanks to Pakistan, which can very well put them in the next round of Super Eight. However, it remains to be seen if Pakistan, shall it manages to reach Super Eight or Final (vs India), abandon the boycott policy and play against the arch-rivals ot simply handover the points.

Pakistan cricket chief Mohsin Naqvi, after Scotland replaced Bangladesh, had said that a decision on Pak's participation will be taken after consultation with the national government. The decision came and shocked everyone, maybe including skipper Agha as well.

T20 World Cup 2026 | 'Not our decision': Pakistan skipper Salman Agha on India match boycott

Pakistan made a winning start in the ongoing three-match T20I series against Australia as the hosts won by 22 runs. Playing at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, Pakistan, batters Saim Ayub and Salman Agha were the stars of the day as Australia were left flat. The win in Lahore means Pakistan lead 1-0 in the series with matches scheduled for Saturday and Sunday.<h2>Pakistan edge Australia</h2>With hype surrounding Pakistan’s potential pullout from the T20 World Cup, the hosts made a poor start as they lost Sahibzada Farhan on the first ball of the series. The poor start, though, did not affect Pakistan’s confidence, as Ayub (40) and Agha (39) stitched a stand of 74 runs for the second wicket. However, their partnership did not last long, with Adam Zampa scalping back-to-back wickets of the duo. Pakistan’s middle order made a decent contribution with Babar Azam (24), Usman Khan (18) and Mohammad Nawaz (15) amongst runs.&nbsp;Zampa was the pick of the bowlers for Australia as he bagged four wickets, while Mahli Beardman and Xavier Bartlett also ended with two wickets each.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-chris-gayle-to-brendon-mccullum-5-batters-to-score-fastest-t20-world-cup-hundreds-rilee-rossouw-ahmed-shehzad-1768553361691">From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds</a><h2>What happened in Australia innings?</h2>Chasing 169, Australia started the proceedings with an aggressive intent but quickly unravelled against Pakistan's disciplined spin attack. While Travis Head provided a brisk start with 23 off 13 balls, he fell to the spin of Saim Ayub (2/29 in 3 overs), who proved to be a surprise weapon by picking up two early wickets. Cameron Green (36 runs off 31 balls) tried to anchor one end while wickets tumbled around him and the required run rate continued to climb.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/meet-indians-to-score-most-runs-in-each-of-last-5-t20-world-cups-ft-virat-kohli-kl-rahul-rohit-sharma-2026-t20-world-cup-1768479871185">Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli</a>&nbsp;The Australian middle order, missing several veteran stars like Tim David and Glenn Maxwell, struggled to cope with Pakistan's spin attack. Abrar Ahmed (2/10 in 4 overs) was the standout performer with the ball, claiming two wickets (Cooper Connolly and Josh Philippe), effectively breaking the back of the Australian chase.&nbsp;Mohammad Nawaz provided the decisive blow by dismissing Green, leaving the visitors in deep trouble at 96/6 in 12.2 overs. While the Australian tail, led by Xavier Bartlett (unbeaten 34 off 25), tried defiantly, Australia ultimately finished their 20 overs at 146/8, handing Pakistan a comfortable 22-run victory to take a 1-0 lead in the three-match series.

Playing at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, Pakistan, batters Saim Ayub and Salman Agha were the stars of the day as Australia were left flat. 

Pakistan made a winning start in the ongoing three-match T20I series against Australia as the hosts won by 22 runs. Playing at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, Pakistan, batters Saim Ayub and Salman Agha were the stars of the day as Australia were left flat. The win in Lahore means Pakistan lead 1-0 in the series with matches scheduled for Saturday and Sunday. Pakistan edge Australia With hype surrounding Pakistan’s potential pullout from the T20 World Cup, the hosts made a poor start as they lost Sahibzada Farhan on the first ball of the series. The poor start, though, did not affect Pakistan’s confidence, as Ayub (40) and Agha (39) stitched a stand of 74 runs for the second wicket. However, their partnership did not last long, with Adam Zampa scalping back-to-back wickets of the duo. Pakistan’s middle order made a decent contribution with Babar Azam (24), Usman Khan (18) and Mohammad Nawaz (15) amongst runs. Zampa was the pick of the bowlers for Australia as he bagged four wickets, while Mahli Beardman and Xavier Bartlett also ended with two wickets each. ALSO READ | From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds What happened in Australia innings? Chasing 169, Australia started the proceedings with an aggressive intent but quickly unravelled against Pakistan's disciplined spin attack. While Travis Head provided a brisk start with 23 off 13 balls, he fell to the spin of Saim Ayub (2/29 in 3 overs), who proved to be a surprise weapon by picking up two early wickets. Cameron Green (36 runs off 31 balls) tried to anchor one end while wickets tumbled around him and the required run rate continued to climb. ALSO READ | Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli The Australian middle order, missing several veteran stars like Tim David and Glenn Maxwell, struggled to cope with Pakistan's spin attack. Abrar Ahmed (2/10 in 4 overs) was the standout performer with the ball, claiming two wickets (Cooper Connolly and Josh Philippe), effectively breaking the back of the Australian chase. Mohammad Nawaz provided the decisive blow by dismissing Green, leaving the visitors in deep trouble at 96/6 in 12.2 overs. While the Australian tail, led by Xavier Bartlett (unbeaten 34 off 25), tried defiantly, Australia ultimately finished their 20 overs at 146/8, handing Pakistan a comfortable 22-run victory to take a 1-0 lead in the three-match series.

Playing at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, Pakistan, batters Saim Ayub and Salman Agha were the stars of the day as Australia were left flat.&nbsp;

PAK vs AUS: Pakistan edge Australia in T20I series opener; Saim Ayub, Salman Agha shine with bat

Sri Lanka eked out a hard fought 14-run victory over Pakistan in the third T20 at rain-hit Dambulla on Sunday (Jan 11), easing their batting jitters and squaring the three-match series 1-1. The series, a warm-up for the T20 World Cup with Pakistan set to play all their matches in Sri Lanka due to political tensions with nuclear-armed neighbours India, saw the visitors clinch the opener by six wickets before rain washed out the second game.&nbsp;"We were a bit worried about our batting and I'm glad we addressed that today," said Wanindu Hasaranga, who walked away with both Player of the Match and Player of the Series honours. "The bowlers did a good job too. The ball was wet and it wasn't easy. We tried to bowl wide and slow and asked them to take risks."&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-nz-1st-odi-virat-kohli-out-shines-in-vadodara-as-men-in-blue-kick-start-2026-with-win-india-vs-new-zealand-1768147368826">IND vs NZ, 1st ODI: Virat Kohli 'out-shines' in Vadodara as Men in Blue kick start 2026 with win</a>&nbsp;Hasaranga took four wickets in the game and in the process completed 150 wickets in T20Is.&nbsp;In a contest trimmed to 12 overs a side, Sri Lanka muscled their way to a competitive 160 before choking Pakistan to 146-8.&nbsp;Having been bowled out inside 20 overs in the series opener, Sri Lanka needed a statement with the bat and duly ticked every box after being put in. The top order laid the platform and the middle order applied the finishing touches. Wicket-keeper Kusal Mendis made hay under the Power Play, blasting 30 off 16 balls while Dhananjaya de Silva (22 off 15) and Charith Asalanka (21 off 13) kept the scoreboard ticking.&nbsp;Skipper Dasun Shanaka then swung the momentum decisively, clubbing 34 off just nine deliveries, peppered with five towering sixes.&nbsp;The sixth-wicket stand between Shanaka and Janith Liyanage produced 52 runs in just 15 balls and proved the turning point, shifting the game firmly Sri Lanka's way.&nbsp;Pakistan came out swinging in reply, racing to 50 in just 19 balls with captain Salman Agha hammering 45 off 12 balls, including five fours and three sixes. But once the field spread, Sri Lanka tightened the screws, applied the choke and forced the asking rate to spiral.&nbsp;"It was a good game of cricket," Agha said. "We conceded too many runs, but our batting effort was good. Unfortunately, we fell short. We know we are going to play all our World Cup games in Sri Lanka and it's important that we played in similar conditions," he added.&nbsp;Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

The series, a warm-up for the T20 World Cup with Pakistan set to play all their matches in Sri Lanka due to political tensions with nuclear-armed neighbours India, saw the visitors clinch the opener by six wickets before rain washed out the second game.

Sri Lanka eked out a hard fought 14-run victory over Pakistan in the third T20 at rain-hit Dambulla on Sunday (Jan 11), easing their batting jitters and squaring the three-match series 1-1. The series, a warm-up for the T20 World Cup with Pakistan set to play all their matches in Sri Lanka due to political tensions with nuclear-armed neighbours India, saw the visitors clinch the opener by six wickets before rain washed out the second game. "We were a bit worried about our batting and I'm glad we addressed that today," said Wanindu Hasaranga, who walked away with both Player of the Match and Player of the Series honours. "The bowlers did a good job too. The ball was wet and it wasn't easy. We tried to bowl wide and slow and asked them to take risks." Also read | IND vs NZ, 1st ODI: Virat Kohli 'out-shines' in Vadodara as Men in Blue kick start 2026 with win Hasaranga took four wickets in the game and in the process completed 150 wickets in T20Is. In a contest trimmed to 12 overs a side, Sri Lanka muscled their way to a competitive 160 before choking Pakistan to 146-8. Having been bowled out inside 20 overs in the series opener, Sri Lanka needed a statement with the bat and duly ticked every box after being put in. The top order laid the platform and the middle order applied the finishing touches. Wicket-keeper Kusal Mendis made hay under the Power Play, blasting 30 off 16 balls while Dhananjaya de Silva (22 off 15) and Charith Asalanka (21 off 13) kept the scoreboard ticking. Skipper Dasun Shanaka then swung the momentum decisively, clubbing 34 off just nine deliveries, peppered with five towering sixes. The sixth-wicket stand between Shanaka and Janith Liyanage produced 52 runs in just 15 balls and proved the turning point, shifting the game firmly Sri Lanka's way. Pakistan came out swinging in reply, racing to 50 in just 19 balls with captain Salman Agha hammering 45 off 12 balls, including five fours and three sixes. But once the field spread, Sri Lanka tightened the screws, applied the choke and forced the asking rate to spiral. "It was a good game of cricket," Agha said. "We conceded too many runs, but our batting effort was good. Unfortunately, we fell short. We know we are going to play all our World Cup games in Sri Lanka and it's important that we played in similar conditions," he added. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

The series, a warm-up for the T20 World Cup with Pakistan set to play all their matches in Sri Lanka due to political tensions with nuclear-armed neighbours India, saw the visitors clinch the opener by six wickets before rain washed out the second game.

Hasaranga shines with four-for as Sri Lanka edge out Pakistan in rain-hit 3rd T20I, level series

One-Day Cricket in 2025 is over, and let’s take a look at players who made the most appearances in this format this year. No Indian made it to the list, but check who did.

One-Day Cricket in 2025 is over, and let’s take a look at players who made the most appearances in this format this year. No Indian made it to the list, but check who did.

Who has Played Most ODI Matches in 2025? No Indian, check full list

In a startling development surrounding the recently concluded Asia Cup final between arch-rivals, Salman Ali Agha, the Pakistani captain, did a Suryakumar Yadav. In the post-match presser, Agha vowed that he and his team would donate their respective Asia Cup fee to the children and civilians affected during Operation Sindoor. Earlier, SKY also mentioned that he would donate his entire Asia Cup match fee to the Indian Armed Forces and the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack.&nbsp;&nbsp;“As a team, we have decided to donate our match fees to the civilians and children affected by India’s attack,” Agha said at the post-match press conference.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-country-s-leader-himself-bats-on-the-front-foot-suryakumar-yadav-heaps-praise-on-pm-modi-after-asia-cup-win-1759147475778'">'Country’s leader himself bats on the front foot': Suryakumar Yadav heaps praise on PM Modi after Asia Cup win</a> &nbsp;Earlier in April this year, several Pakistani-based terrorists killed 26 innocent lives in broad daylight in India’s Kashmir in the most barbaric attack on Indian soil since the 2019 Pulwama bombing. Devastated by this heinous crime, the Indian government retaliated with Operation Sindoor a fortnight later, neutralising countless terror camps across the PoK and Pakistan in precise air strikes.&nbsp; &nbsp;India’s decision to attack Pakistan’s air bases led to escalating cross-border tensions, with a war-like situation emerging overnight. A mutual agreement, however, led to a ceasefire, but the relations turned worse. &nbsp;While India did cut all diplomatic ties with Pakistan, the two concerned governments and their respective boards decided to honour the international/multi-team event rules by agreeing to play against each other in this continental tournament.&nbsp; &nbsp;Placed in the same group (Group A), India and Pakistan faced off three times in this edition alone, with India winning on all occasions. They won their group stage match by seven wickets, and later, clinched a six-wicket win in the Super Fours. Meanwhile, in the grand finale, the Men in Blue rose from an indifferent start, with Tilak Varma contributing massively during the chase, scoring an unbeaten 69 off 53 to help India stand tall by five wickets in Dubai.<h3>Team India refuses to collect Asia Cup trophy from Naqvi &nbsp;</h3>After Rinku Singh scored the winning runs against Pakistan in a nerve-racking final, plenty of drama unfolded that made headlines.&nbsp; &nbsp;Not only did the Indian Team walk off without shaking hands with the Pakistani players (for the third time in this tournament), they also refused to collect the coveted Asia Cup trophy from ACC president Mohsin Naqvi, who also happens to be an interior minister in the Pakistan government and the chairman of the PCB. &nbsp;Upon learning about Team India’s stance, Naqvi also walked away with the trophy, with the Indian side celebrating their ninth Asia Cup triumph on the podium without holding the cup.&nbsp;

Earlier, SKY also mentioned that he would donate his entire Asia Cup match fee to the Indian Armed Forces and the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack. 

In a startling development surrounding the recently concluded Asia Cup final between arch-rivals, Salman Ali Agha, the Pakistani captain, did a Suryakumar Yadav. In the post-match presser, Agha vowed that he and his team would donate their respective Asia Cup fee to the children and civilians affected during Operation Sindoor. Earlier, SKY also mentioned that he would donate his entire Asia Cup match fee to the Indian Armed Forces and the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack. “As a team, we have decided to donate our match fees to the civilians and children affected by India’s attack,” Agha said at the post-match press conference. Also read | 'Country’s leader himself bats on the front foot': Suryakumar Yadav heaps praise on PM Modi after Asia Cup win Earlier in April this year, several Pakistani-based terrorists killed 26 innocent lives in broad daylight in India’s Kashmir in the most barbaric attack on Indian soil since the 2019 Pulwama bombing. Devastated by this heinous crime, the Indian government retaliated with Operation Sindoor a fortnight later, neutralising countless terror camps across the PoK and Pakistan in precise air strikes. India’s decision to attack Pakistan’s air bases led to escalating cross-border tensions, with a war-like situation emerging overnight. A mutual agreement, however, led to a ceasefire, but the relations turned worse. While India did cut all diplomatic ties with Pakistan, the two concerned governments and their respective boards decided to honour the international/multi-team event rules by agreeing to play against each other in this continental tournament. Placed in the same group (Group A), India and Pakistan faced off three times in this edition alone, with India winning on all occasions. They won their group stage match by seven wickets, and later, clinched a six-wicket win in the Super Fours. Meanwhile, in the grand finale, the Men in Blue rose from an indifferent start, with Tilak Varma contributing massively during the chase, scoring an unbeaten 69 off 53 to help India stand tall by five wickets in Dubai. Team India refuses to collect Asia Cup trophy from Naqvi After Rinku Singh scored the winning runs against Pakistan in a nerve-racking final, plenty of drama unfolded that made headlines. Not only did the Indian Team walk off without shaking hands with the Pakistani players (for the third time in this tournament), they also refused to collect the coveted Asia Cup trophy from ACC president Mohsin Naqvi, who also happens to be an interior minister in the Pakistan government and the chairman of the PCB. Upon learning about Team India’s stance, Naqvi also walked away with the trophy, with the Indian side celebrating their ninth Asia Cup triumph on the podium without holding the cup.

Earlier, SKY also mentioned that he would donate his entire Asia Cup match fee to the Indian Armed Forces and the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack.&nbsp;

PAK captain Salman Agha vows to donate Asia Cup fee to ‘children and civilians’ affected during Operation Sindoor

Pakistan beat UAE in a must-win Group A fixture in Asia Cup 2025 to book a place in Super Four stage of the tournament. Pakistan's win, which came after much drama on Wednesday (Sep 17), means they became the second team from Group A after India to qualify for the next stage. The Super Four will have two more teams more Group B and each team will rest of the three teams once. It means there will be one more India vs Pakistan match in ongoing tournament and Pak skipper says 'they are ready for the challenge.'<h2>India vs Pakistan on September 21 in Asia Cup 2025</h2>As per the tournament schedule, two teams from Group A, i.e. India and Pakistan, will play each other on Sunday (Sep 21) in the Super Four stage. The first match between two teams was a one-sided contest with India winning comfortably by seven wickets but Pak skipper Agha says 'they are ready.'Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/asia-cup-2025-pak-pacer-rauf-says-pcb-s-drama-on-pycroft-not-in-my-control-1758168028264">Asia Cup 2025: Pak pacer Rauf says PCB's drama on Pycroft 'not in my control'</a>"We're ready for any challenge and if we keep playing the way we have over the last four months, we'll be good against any side," said the Pak skipper at the post-match presentation after the 41-run against UAE. Pakistan, however, have been poor against India in the recent years batting 2021 T20 World Cup when they won by 10 wickets in Dubai.<h2>Why was Pakistan vs UAE delayed?</h2>Pakistan vs UAE was delayed after the PCB advised players to stay in the hotel as they discussed on their complaint about the India vs Pak group match referee Andy Pycroft. The Zimbabwe national ended up being the referee in the match against UAE after a resolution was reached. Pakistan announced that Pycroft had apologised for asking captains not to shake hands after toss at India vs Pakistan match which was the basis of their complaint to the ICC.

As per the tournament schedule, two teams from Group A, i.e. India and Pakistan, will play each other on Sunday (Sep 21) in the Super Four stage.

Pakistan beat UAE in a must-win Group A fixture in Asia Cup 2025 to book a place in Super Four stage of the tournament. Pakistan's win, which came after much drama on Wednesday (Sep 17), means they became the second team from Group A after India to qualify for the next stage. The Super Four will have two more teams more Group B and each team will rest of the three teams once. It means there will be one more India vs Pakistan match in ongoing tournament and Pak skipper says 'they are ready for the challenge.' India vs Pakistan on September 21 in Asia Cup 2025 As per the tournament schedule, two teams from Group A, i.e. India and Pakistan, will play each other on Sunday (Sep 21) in the Super Four stage. The first match between two teams was a one-sided contest with India winning comfortably by seven wickets but Pak skipper Agha says 'they are ready.' Also Read - Asia Cup 2025: Pak pacer Rauf says PCB's drama on Pycroft 'not in my control' "We're ready for any challenge and if we keep playing the way we have over the last four months, we'll be good against any side," said the Pak skipper at the post-match presentation after the 41-run against UAE. Pakistan, however, have been poor against India in the recent years batting 2021 T20 World Cup when they won by 10 wickets in Dubai. Why was Pakistan vs UAE delayed? Pakistan vs UAE was delayed after the PCB advised players to stay in the hotel as they discussed on their complaint about the India vs Pak group match referee Andy Pycroft. The Zimbabwe national ended up being the referee in the match against UAE after a resolution was reached. Pakistan announced that Pycroft had apologised for asking captains not to shake hands after toss at India vs Pakistan match which was the basis of their complaint to the ICC.

As per the tournament schedule, two teams from Group A, i.e. India and Pakistan, will play each other on Sunday (Sep 21) in the Super Four stage.

India vs Pakistan, Asia Cup 2025 Round 2 on September 21: Pak skipper Agha says 'we are ready for challenge'

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