The Pakistan Shaheens are set to make waves in the Top End T20 Series, scheduled from 14 to 24 August 2025 in Darwin, Australia. Led by the dynamic Muhammad Irfan Khan, who has represented Pakistan in nine ODIs and 14 T20Is, the team is poised to showcase their talent in this 11-team tournament.
Pakistan Shaheens Squad for Top End T20 Series
The 15-member squad, announced on 12 July 2025, blends experience with emerging talent. Key players include:
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Muhammad Irfan Khan (Captain): A seasoned player with international exposure in both ODI and T20I formats, Irfan Khan will lead the side with his aggressive batting and leadership skills.
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Abdul Samad: Featured in five T20Is, known for his explosive middle-order batting.
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Haider Ali: With two ODIs and 35 T20Is under his belt, Haider brings flair and experience to the batting lineup.
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Faisal Akram: A promising spinner with three ODIs, expected to trouble opposition batsmen.
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Mubasir Khan: A versatile all-rounder with one T20I, adding depth to the squad.
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Ahmed Daniyal and Mohammad Salman Mirza: Both part of Pakistan’s T20I squad for the upcoming Bangladesh series, they bring fresh momentum.
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Wicket-keepers: Khawaja Mohammad Nafay and Muhammad Ghazi Ghori provide solid options behind the stumps.
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Emerging Stars: Maaz Sadaqat, Mehran Mumtaz, Saad Masood, Shahid Aziz, Ubaid Shah, and Yasir Khan are young talents eager to make their mark.
The team management, led by head coach Ghulam Ali, includes Sami Ullah Niazi (bowling coach), Mansoor Amjad (fielding coach), Muhammad Ibrahim (analyst), and Muhammad Aleem (physio), ensuring comprehensive support for the players.
Top End T20 Series Schedule
The Pakistan Shaheens will kick off their campaign against Bangladesh ‘A’ on 14 August at TIO Stadium, Darwin, at 7pm local time. Here’s the full fixture list:
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14 August: vs Bangladesh ‘A’, TIO Stadium (7pm local time)
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16 August: vs Scorchers, TIO Stadium (4pm local time)
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18 August: vs Renegades, TIO Stadium (6pm local time)
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19 August: vs Kingsmen, DXC Arena (1pm local time)
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20 August: vs Strikers, DXC Arena (7pm local time)
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22 August: vs Nepal, DXC Arena (7pm local time)
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24 August: Semi-finals and final
The tournament’s semi-finals and final are set for 24 August, promising high-stakes action as teams vie for the title.
Why This Tournament Matters
The Top End T20 Series is a crucial platform for Pakistan’s emerging cricketers to gain international exposure. With a mix of experienced internationals and promising youngsters, the Shaheens are well-positioned to dominate the tournament. The event also serves as a preparatory ground for players like Ahmed Daniyal and Mohammad Salman Mirza, who are part of Pakistan’s T20I squad for the upcoming Bangladesh series.
The Darwin-bound squad will undergo a training camp, details of which will be announced soon, to fine-tune their skills ahead of the tournament. The combination of TIO Stadium and DXC Arena as venues adds to the excitement, offering diverse playing conditions for the teams.
Players to Watch
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Muhammad Irfan Khan: As captain, his leadership and batting prowess will be critical.
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Haider Ali: Known for his aggressive stroke play, he could be a game-changer.
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Faisal Akram: His spin bowling could exploit the Australian pitches.
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Abdul Samad: A hard-hitting batsman capable of turning matches in Pakistan’s favor.
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Ubaid Shah: An emerging fast bowler with potential to shine on the international stage.
The Pakistan Shaheens are ready to take on the Top End T20 Series with a balanced squad and a clear focus on success. Under Muhammad Irfan Khan’s leadership, the team aims to make a strong statement in Darwin. Cricket fans can expect thrilling matches, with the Shaheens facing tough opponents like Bangladesh ‘A’, Scorchers, Renegades, Kingsmen, Strikers, and Nepal. Stay tuned for updates on the training camp and match performances as the tournament unfolds from 14 to 24 August 2025.
