PAK vs AUS: Rizwan teases ‘secret’ playing XI ahead of Pakistan’s T20I series against Australia

Pakistan’s white-ball captain Mohammad Rizwan has hinted at a closely guarded playing XI for the upcoming T20I series against Australia, which kicks off on November 14 at The Gabba.

Addressing the media in Brisbane, Rizwan faced questions about Pakistan’s lineup for the three-match series opener and potential opening combinations. In response, the wicketkeeper-batter maintained an air of mystery around the final playing XI, affirming that the team management has chosen to keep it under wraps for now.

“There’s been a lot of talk about the playing XI, but we’ve kept it a secret for now because there are some things I want to keep to myself,” Rizwan shared. “Once the decisions are finalized, we’ll share them.”

While discussing the opening pair, Rizwan emphasized the team’s focus on stability and consistency while also addressing key areas for improvement. “We always aim to stick with what’s working best, while also focusing on areas that need improvement,” he added. “I always try to consult with others and make decisions that are in the best interest of Pakistan.”

Leading a squad with fresh faces, Rizwan acknowledged the impact of senior players’ absence—such as Fakhar Zaman, Mohammad Amir, Imad Wasim, and Iftikhar Ahmed—whose experience has been pivotal for Pakistan in T20s. “The names you’ve mentioned, it’s not easy to fill the gap they have left. You can’t replace them overnight; it takes time,” Rizwan remarked. “All four have contributed a lot, and it’s hard to say how long it will take to fully fill their roles in our lineup.”

The captain concluded by expressing optimism for the current series, underscoring Pakistan’s commitment to finding the best XI from the available talent. “Right now, our focus is on the current series and how we can field the best XI. We’re working on it and have something in mind for that.”

Pakistan’s T20I squad for Australia tour: Arafat Minhas, Babar Azam, Haris Rauf, Haseebullah, Jahandad Khan, Mohammad Abbas Afridi, Mohammad Rizwan (WK), Muhammad Irfan Khan, Naseem Shah, Omair Bin Yousuf, Sahibzada Farhan, Salman Ali Agha, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Sufyan Moqim, Usman Khan

T20I series schedule:

• 14 November: The Gabba, Brisbane (N)
• 16 November: SCG, Sydney (N)
• 18 November: Bellerive Oval, Hobart (N)