Pakistan fully ready for T20 World Cup, says confident captain Salman Agha
By Nawaz Gohar ; Pakistan’s national cricket team is fully prepared for the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup, according to captain Salman Ali Agha, who expressed complete confidence in his squad following their victory in the Tri-Series final on Sunday night.
Speaking to the media after the title-clinching win, Salman said that the past several months had been dedicated to strengthening the T20 lineup by providing opportunities to a wide range of players. “All the players who were added to the squad have now started delivering strong performances,” he said. “I firmly believe that our team is fully ready for the World Cup, and the management has finalized the group of 15 players who will carry the team forward.”
The ICC T20 World Cup, scheduled for February–March next year, will be jointly hosted by India and Sri Lanka. However, all of Pakistan’s matches will be played in Sri Lanka, where pitches are traditionally known to favour spin bowling, an aspect Pakistan sees as an advantage.
Salman Agha, appointed T20 captain in December 2024, has since guided Pakistan to three final victories and secured wins against every Asian side except India. He credited the team’s balance and depth, particularly in the all-rounders’ department. “Pakistan cricket is fortunate to have quality all-rounders who are performing consistently. Playing our matches in Sri Lanka will particularly benefit us,” he added.
Looking ahead, Pakistan is set to play its next T20 series against Australia at the end of January, a key assignment in the team’s World Cup preparations. Before that, Pakistan is also expected to play a three-match T20 series in Sri Lanka, which will provide valuable practice in local conditions ahead of the mega event.
