(Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail)
Pakistan Shaheens Announce Last-Minute Squad Changes for Top End T20 Series
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has announced late changes to the Pakistan Shaheens squad, just hours before their scheduled departure to Darwin, Australia, for the upcoming 2025 Top End T20 Series.
Haider Ali Dropped Amid Off-Field Issues
Middle-order batter Haider Ali has been dropped from the squad following recent developments in an ongoing investigation in the UK. In his place, Mohammad Faiq has been named as a replacement. This update comes as part of PCB’s efforts to maintain discipline and integrity in the national setup.
Pace Bowling Swap: Wasim Jnr In, Salman Mirza Out
Additionally, Mohammad Wasim Jnr, a right-arm fast bowler, has been drafted into the 15-man squad. He replaces left-arm pacer Salman Mirza, whose omission has not yet been explained by the PCB. However, given Salman’s impressive recent performances against Bangladesh, his exclusion may hint at a potential elevation to the senior national team.
Revised Pakistan Shaheens Squad – Top End T20 Series 2025
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Muhammad Irfan Khan (Captain)
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Abdul Samad
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Ahmed Daniyal
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Faisal Akram
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Khawaja Mohammad Nafay
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Maaz Sadaqat
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Mehran Mumtaz
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Mohammad Faiq
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Mohammad Wasim Jnr
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Muhammad Ghazi Ghori
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Mubasir Khan
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Saad Masood
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Shahid Aziz
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Ubaid Shah
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Yasir Khan
Tournament Overview
The Top End T20 Series, running from August 14 to 24, will be held in Australia’s Northern Territory. This year’s edition features 11 competitive teams, including international ‘A’ sides, Big Bash League franchises, and regional development teams.
The Pakistan Shaheens, led by Muhammad Irfan Khan, will begin their campaign against Bangladesh ‘A’ on August 14 at TIO Stadium.
Pakistan Shaheens Match Schedule
| Date | Opponent | Venue | Time (Local) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 14 Aug | Bangladesh ‘A’ | TIO Stadium | 7:00 pm |
| 16 Aug | Scorchers | TIO Stadium | 4:00 pm |
| 18 Aug | Renegades | TIO Stadium | 6:00 pm |
| 19 Aug | Kingsmen | DXC Arena | 1:00 pm |
| 20 Aug | Strikers | DXC Arena | 7:00 pm |
| 22 Aug | Nepal | DXC Arena | 7:00 pm |
| 24 Aug | Semi-finals & Final | TBC | TBC |
Opportunity for Emerging Talent
This tournament presents an exciting opportunity for Pakistan’s emerging players to gain valuable experience in international-like conditions. With strong competition from experienced teams, the Top End T20 Series serves as a key platform for talent development and could be a pathway to national selection.
