Pakistan Squad for Australia ODI Series, Babar Returns, Rizwan Dropped

Pakistan Squad for Australia ODI Series: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has announced its 16-member squad for the upcoming three-match ODI series against Australia. Following a recent slump in form and a defeat against Bangladesh, all eyes were fixed on this squad selection.

This time around, the selectors have made several surprising decisions regarding the squad, sparking intense buzz within cricketing circles.

Big Updates: Babar Azam Returns to ODI Squad, Mohammad Rizwan Left Out

The biggest talking point surrounding this squad selection is the return of former captain Babar Azam. Currently going through a lean patch, Babar has been given yet another opportunity to prove his mettle.

Conversely, the most surprising decision has been the exclusion of wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan from the squad. Rizwan’s omission appears to signal a shift toward the team management’s future strategies.

Shaheen Shah Afridi to Lead Pakistan, Salman Ali Agha Named Vice-Captain

Fast bowler Shaheen Shah Afridi has once again been entrusted with the captaincy of Pakistan’s ODI team. Following a crushing defeat against Bangladesh, a significant responsibility now rests on Shaheen’s shoulders to steer the team back onto the winning track. Meanwhile, all-rounder Salman Ali Agha has been appointed as the team’s vice-captain; he is expected to not only bolster the middle order but also assist in the leadership duties.

Major Comebacks: Senior Players Return to Pakistan Squad

The selectors have endeavored to strike a balance between experienced veterans and young, fresh faces.

Apart from Babar Azam, several match-winning players have returned to the squad—players who were not part of the ODI series against Bangladesh:

• Haris Rauf (Fast Bowler)
• Naseem Shah (Fast Bowler)
• Shadab Khan (Leg-spinner)
• Sufiyan Muqeem (Young Spinner)

New Faces: 3 Uncapped Players Earn Maiden ODI Call-Up

This 16-member squad includes three uncapped players who have not yet played ODI (50-over format) cricket for Pakistan:

1. Ahmed Daniyal (Has played T20s)
2. Arafat Minhas (Has played T20s)
3. Rohail Nazir (Wicketkeeper-batter – First-time call-up)

Note: Ahmed Daniyal and Arafat Minhas possess international T20 experience, but it will be interesting to see how they adapt to the 50-over format.

Injury Blow: Saim Ayub and Fakhar Zaman Ruled Out of Australia Series

Pakistan has suffered a major setback ahead of the series. The team’s star openers, Saim Ayub and Fakhar Zaman, have been ruled out of this series due to injuries. Both players are currently undergoing their recovery process at the National Cricket Academy (NCA).

In his absence, **Sahibzada Farhan** has been retained in the squad, and the responsibility of opening the innings may well rest upon his shoulders.

PAK vs AUS: Pressure Mounts on Both Teams for the ODI Series

The Pakistan team is coming off recent home series defeats—both in ODIs and Tests—against Bangladesh, placing immense pressure on both the squad and their new captain.

However, there is a silver lining: **Australia is also not fielding its full-strength squad**. Mitchell Marsh will captain the Australian side, while their premier fast bowlers—**Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, and Josh Hazlewood**—have been rested for this series. Consequently, this presents a golden opportunity for Pakistan to stage a comeback.

Pakistan vs Australia ODI Series Schedule and Venue Details

This series will be played on Pakistan’s home grounds. The complete schedule for the matches is as follows:

Also Raed: Australia Announces Squad for Women’s T20 World Cup 2026, Lucy Hamilton Included