Pakistan’s T20I captain Agha Salman has vowed to lead his side with a fearless and attacking brand of cricket as they take on Bangladesh in a three-match T20I series starting today at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore.
Addressing the media ahead of the series opener, Salman underscored the importance of playing bold yet calculated cricket in preparation for the upcoming T20 World Cup in Sri Lanka.
“It’s not just Islamabad United’s style.
All over the world, teams are adopting attacking cricket. We’re doing the same—fearless, but not careless,” said the 31-year-old skipper, emphasizing a mindset that balances aggression with tactical awareness.
Salman acknowledged Bangladesh’s threat, singling out captain Litton Das as a key player Pakistan will aim to neutralize.
“Litton Das will be a prize wicket for us. We’ll look to limit his scoring,” he stated.
The current squad features eight changes from the one that toured New Zealand earlier this year, with the reshuffle aimed at enhancing depth and flexibility.
“Based on Sri Lankan conditions, we’re forming a core group of 20 to 25 players. It gives us options if injuries happen and helps us find the best XI,” Salman explained.
Among the new faces is Hasan Nawaz, who was named Player of the Tournament in HBL PSL 10.
Salman clarified Nawaz’s position in the lineup, noting, “He performed well in the middle order during the PSL, so there’s no need for him to open.”
Expected Playing XIs
Salman Ali Agha (captain), Shadab Khan (vice-captain), Abrar Ahmed, Faheem Ashraf, Fakhar Zaman, Haris Rauf, Hasan Ali, Hassan Nawaz, Hussain Talat, Khushdil Shah, Mohammad Haris (wicket-keeper), Mohammad Wasim Jr, Muhammad Irfan Khan, Naseem Shah, Sahibzada Farhan (wicket-keeper), Saim Ayub.