World Cup Preparations in Full Swing: 16 to 20 Players Identified
Pakistan’s cricket captain, Shaheen Shah Afridi, shared insights into the team’s T20 World Cup preparations, revealing that they have zeroed in on a pool of 16 to 20 players following the challenging five-match series against New Zealand.
Victory Amidst Challenges: Pakistan Clinches Final T20I
Despite facing obstacles throughout the series, Pakistan secured a triumphant 42-run win in the final T20I against New Zealand. Shaheen lauded the experienced off-spinner, Iftikhar Ahmed, for his crucial role and confirmed the finalization of the World Cup squad.
Strategic Player Rotation: Shaheen’s Perspective
Shaheen explained the strategic approach of providing opportunities to youngsters and exploring diverse player combinations during the series. Notable instances include Haseebullah, who was given a chance in the ultimate match to boost his confidence for upcoming home series.
Team Unity and Confidence Boost: Shaheen’s Reflections
Acknowledging the importance of the final game, Shaheen emphasized the significance of playing as a cohesive unit. He highlighted the team’s intention to bolster confidence and test various player spots in preparation for the upcoming T20 World Cup.
Promising Talents Unveiled: Abbas Afridi and Saim Ayub Shine
Shaheen identified two promising talents who stood out during the series. Abbas Afridi, a dynamic fielder and batsman, showcased his prowess, adding stability to the bowling unit. Saim Ayub, although not meeting expectations, was acknowledged for his potential to contribute significantly to Pakistan cricket in the future.
In conclusion, Pakistan’s victory against New Zealand not only marked a resilient comeback but also served as a platform to solidify the T20 World Cup squad. Shaheen’s strategic approach and the emergence of promising talents reflect a positive trajectory for Pakistan’s cricketing future.
Author Profile

- Daily Olympic is Pakistan’s first sports daily, simultaneously publishing from Narowal and Lahore. We are committed to providing our readers with the latest and most comprehensive sports coverage, from local to international events.
Latest entries
TennisNovember 10, 2025Carlos Alcaraz Shines in ATP Finals Opener with Straight-Set Win Over Alex de Minaur
FootballNovember 10, 2025Pep Guardiola Marks 1,000th Game as Manager with Manchester City’s Stunning 3-0 Win Over Liverpool
CricketNovember 10, 2025Babar Azam Nears Major Milestones Ahead of Pakistan vs Sri Lanka ODI Series in Rawalpindi
BoxingNovember 7, 2025Fatima Zahra Secures Pakistan’s First Medal at Islamic Games
