Australia have officially announced their 17-member squad for the upcoming T20 International series against Pakistan, scheduled to take place later this month. The short series is part of Australia’s preparation ahead of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, giving selectors a chance to test combinations and give opportunities to emerging players.
The three-match T20I series will be played in Pakistan, drawing strong interest from cricket fans in both countries.
Pakistan vs Australia T20I Series 2026 – Match Schedule & Venue
All matches of the series will be hosted at Gaddafi Stadium, one of Pakistan’s most iconic cricket venues.
Match dates:
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1st T20I: January 29, 2026
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2nd T20I: January 31, 2026
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3rd T20I: February 1, 2026
The compact schedule allows both teams to complete the series within four days.
Mitchell Marsh Named Captain
All-rounder Mitchell Marsh has been appointed captain for the Pakistan T20I series. Marsh’s leadership comes at a key time as Australia look to balance experience with youth ahead of the World Cup.
Several senior players, including Travis Head, Cameron Green, and Josh Inglis, are part of the squad after recent international appearances.
Big Bash League Impact on Squad Availability
The T20I series overlaps with the closing stages of Australia’s domestic T20 tournament, the Big Bash League. Players still involved in BBL finals will join the national squad only after completing their franchise commitments.
This scheduling has influenced squad selection and availability for the opening match.
Key Players Missing the Pakistan Tour
Australia will travel without several high-profile names as selectors manage workload and recovery:
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Nathan Ellis
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Tim David
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Josh Hazlewood
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Glenn Maxwell
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Pat Cummins
The absence of these players opens the door for younger talent to gain international exposure.
New Faces & Young Talent Included
To cover the missing players, selectors have added a number of fresh and in-form cricketers:
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Sean Abbott
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Mahli Beardman
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Ben Dwarshuis
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Jack Edwards
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Mitch Owen
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Josh Philippe
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Matthew Renshaw
Fast bowler Mahli Beardman and all-rounder Jack Edwards are among the notable inclusions after impressive performances in the Big Bash League. Both players are yet to make their international debuts.
Selectors’ View on the Pakistan Series
Australia’s selection panel described the Pakistan tour as an important opportunity for players close to national selection. The series allows the team management to assess depth, flexibility, and adaptability in sub-continent conditions before the World Cup.
Australia Squad for Pakistan T20I Series 2026
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Mitchell Marsh (Captain)
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Sean Abbott
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Xavier Bartlett
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Mahli Beardman
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Cooper Connolly
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Ben Dwarshuis
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Jack Edwards
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Cameron Green
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Travis Head
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Josh Inglis
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Matthew Kuhnemann
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Mitch Owen
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Josh Philippe
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Matthew Renshaw
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Matt Short
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Marcus Stoinis
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Adam Zampa
Australia’s Recent Tours of Pakistan
This will be Australia’s third tour of Pakistan since 2022, following:
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A historic Test series in 2022
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ODI and T20 matches in subsequent tours
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Matches during the ICC Champions Trophy hosted in Pakistan
These tours reflect the growing normalcy of international cricket returning to Pakistan.
What to Expect from the Series
The Pakistan vs Australia T20I series promises:
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Competitive cricket ahead of the World Cup
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Opportunities for emerging Australian players
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High fan engagement at Gaddafi Stadium
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Valuable preparation for both teams
Conclusion
Australia’s squad announcement for the Pakistan T20I series 2026 highlights a clear focus on balance—mixing experienced campaigners with young talent. With Mitchell Marsh leading the side and several new faces included, the series is expected to play a key role in Australia’s T20 World Cup preparations while delivering exciting cricket for fans in Pakistan.
Stay connected for more updates on Pakistan cricket, international series, squad announcements, and match previews.
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