Pakistan’s men’s T20 cricket team has officially landed in Dubai, marking the beginning of their preparations for the highly anticipated Asia Cup 2025 and the upcoming tri-nation series. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) confirmed the team’s arrival on Wednesday, signaling the start of a crucial phase ahead of back-to-back competitions in the UAE.
A Packed Schedule Ahead
The national side will first compete in the Tri-Series against Afghanistan and the United Arab Emirates, beginning August 29. This short but significant event will serve as a warm-up opportunity, allowing Pakistan to fine-tune their combinations before entering the high-pressure Asia Cup.
Just days later, on September 9, the spotlight will shift entirely to the Asia Cup, where Pakistan will face the region’s strongest teams. Both tournaments are set to be staged across Dubai and Abu Dhabi, making the UAE the cricketing hub for the next few weeks.
Read More: 7 Indian Players Set for Their First Asia Cup Appearance in 2025
Why This Tour Matters for Pakistan
For Pakistan, this campaign is more than just another international assignment. With the T20 World Cup 2026 on the horizon, every series is being viewed as a platform to build momentum and test new strategies.
- Team Balance: The squad features a mix of experienced campaigners and rising stars, reflecting Pakistan’s intent to prepare a competitive unit for the long term.
- Conditions in UAE: The familiar pitches of Dubai and Abu Dhabi will test the adaptability of the players. Historically, Pakistani cricketers have thrived in the UAE, which could give them an early advantage.
- Regional Rivalries: Beyond performance, matches against Afghanistan and India in particular carry immense emotional weight for fans and players alike.
Pakistan Squad — Asia Cup 2025 & Tri-Series
- Salman Ali Agha (Captain)
- Abrar Ahmed (Leg-spin bowler)
- Faheem Ashraf (All-rounder)
- Fakhar Zaman (Opening batter, returning from a hamstring injury)
- Haris Rauf (Pace bowler)
- Hasan Ali (Pace bowler)
- Hasan Nawaz (Batter)
- Hussain Talat (All-rounder)
- Khushdil Shah (All-rounder)
- Mohammad Haris (Wicket-keeper batter)
- Mohammad Nawaz (All-rounder)
- Mohammad Waseem Jr (Fast bowler)
- Sahibzada Farhan (Aggressive middle-order batter)
- Saim Ayub (Explosive opening batter, occasional mystery spin)
- Salman Mirza (All-round potential)
- Shaheen Shah Afridi (Strike-bowler and impact all-rounder)
- Sufyan (Moqim) (Left-arm wrist spinner)
With the Asia Cup kicking off on September 9, followed by group-stage matches—including the high-voltage clash against India this squad has a unique opportunity to stake a claim in the T20 arena. The tri-series offering warm-up games against Afghanistan and the UAE should sharpen their game plans and quicken their cohesion