Pakistan Drop Babar Azam, Rizwan & Shaheen Afridi for Asian Games 2026, New Captain Named — But Is India Still Stronger?

By sparkchronicle.com Jun 10, 2026 0

CRICKET: Pakistan have announced their squad for the 2026 Asian Games, dropping Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan and Shaheen Afridi. Here’s the full squad, captain update and India vs Pakistan team comparison.

By Sam Khan
Published: June 10, 2026

In a surprising move, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has announced a fresh-look squad for the 2026 Asian Games, leaving out several senior stars including Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Salman Ali Agha, and Haris Rauf. Instead, selectors have opted for a younger and experimental squad led by Sahibzada Farhan.

The decision comes after Pakistan’s disappointing performances in recent white-ball tournaments, with selectors seemingly looking to build a younger T20 core for the future. The squad also includes rising names such as Saim Ayub and spinner Abrar Ahmed, who are expected to play major roles in the tournament.

Pakistan Asian Games 2026 Squad

Pakistan have named a 15-member squad for the men’s cricket competition at the Asian Games in Japan, scheduled for September–October 2026. Veteran opener Sahibzada Farhan will captain the side, while Abdul Samad has been named vice-captain.

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Pakistan Squad for Asian Games 2026

Sahibzada Farhan (Captain)
Abdul Samad (Vice-Captain)
Abrar Ahmed
Ahmed Daniyal
Akif Javed
Ali Raza
Arafat Minhas
Haider Ali
Hasan Nawaz
Maaz Sadaqat
Mohammad Salman Mirza
Saad Masood
Saim Ayub
Sufyan Moqim
Usman Khan (WK)

One of the biggest talking points remains the exclusion of Pakistan’s senior trio — Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, and Shaheen Afridi.

Why Were Babar, Rizwan and Shaheen Dropped?

While the PCB has not officially labelled it as a “drop,” reports suggest the move is part of a strategic transition aimed at testing young talent in the shorter format. Pakistan selectors appear focused on building a younger T20 squad rather than relying on experienced names.

The omission comes amid criticism of Pakistan’s recent T20 performances, particularly after underwhelming campaigns in global tournaments.

Many fans believe selectors are trying to reset the squad by rewarding aggressive players and younger domestic performers.

However, the decision has divided fans:

Supporters Say

Pakistan needed fresh energy
Young players deserve opportunities
Senior stars have struggled for consistency in T20 cricket.

Critics Say

Dropping experienced match-winners weakens the squad
Big tournaments require senior leadership
Pakistan may lack stability under pressure.

Saim Ayub and Abrar Ahmed Key to Pakistan’s Hopes

Among the biggest positives for Pakistan is the inclusion of Saim Ayub, who continues to be viewed as one of Pakistan cricket’s most exciting young batting talents.

His aggressive batting style could suit T20 cricket perfectly, especially in Asian conditions.

Meanwhile, mystery spinner Abrar Ahmed brings wicket-taking ability and variety.

With spin often becoming decisive in multi-nation tournaments, Abrar could become Pakistan’s X-factor.

Who Is Sahibzada Farhan?

The biggest surprise perhaps is Sahibzada Farhan being named captain.

The experienced domestic performer has represented Pakistan before but has never led the national side in a major white-ball event. Reports suggest selectors see him as a stabilising figure for a younger group.

Farhan’s leadership will now be closely watched, especially given the pressure surrounding Pakistan cricket after recent disappointments.

India vs Pakistan: Which Team Looks Stronger?

Now comes the big debate — India or Pakistan, who looks stronger for the Asian Games?

Batting

Advantage: India 🇮🇳

India’s bench strength remains significantly deeper.

Even when India sends a second-string side, they still possess IPL-experienced players capable of winning matches under pressure.

Pakistan’s batting, without Babar and Rizwan, looks less experienced and more unpredictable.

Bowling

Slight Advantage: India 🇮🇳

Pakistan still have exciting bowling talent, especially through Abrar Ahmed and young pacers.

But without Shaheen Afridi and Haris Rauf, India appears more balanced overall.

Experience

Big Advantage: India 🇮🇳

India’s domestic system consistently produces players ready for international cricket.

Pakistan’s squad contains several inexperienced names who may need time to settle.

X-Factor Players

Pakistan 🇵🇰

Pakistan still possess dangerous match-winners in:

Saim Ayub
Abrar Ahmed
Haider Ali.

If these players fire, Pakistan can beat anyone in T20 cricket.

Prediction: Who Is Stronger Right Now?

On paper: India looks stronger.

Why?

Because India’s second-string squad is often filled with IPL stars and international experience.

Pakistan’s Asian Games squad feels more like a rebuilding unit.

However — and this is important — T20 cricket is unpredictable.

Pakistan has historically surprised stronger teams in major tournaments.

One explosive batting innings or magical bowling spell can completely change outcomes.

Current Verdict

India: 65% stronger
Pakistan: Dangerous underdogs

Final Thoughts

Pakistan’s decision to leave out major stars like Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan and Shaheen Afridi signals a bold new direction.

Whether it turns into a masterstroke or backfires remains to be seen.

For now, India appears stronger on paper due to squad depth and experience. But when it comes to India vs Pakistan cricket, predictions often mean very little — because pressure, emotion and big-match moments can change everything.