Australia Set for Youthful Test Against Full-Strength Pakistan in T20I Series Opener
LAHORE, 29 January 2026 – A severely under-strength Australian side will blood three new debutants against a full-strength Pakistan team in the first Twenty20 International at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium today, serving as a crucial final tune-up for both nations ahead of next month’s ICC T20 World Cup.
Series Context and Importance
This rapid-fire three-match series, with games on 29 January, 31 January and 1 February, represents the final competitive hit-out for both squads before the global tournament. Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha emphasised the series’ significance, stating the games “will determine what will be our XI for the World Cup.” For Australia, the tour offers vital preparation and a chance to test their depth, with several first-choice players already in Sri Lanka with the World Cup squad.
Team News and Key Absences
Australia, led by Mitchell Marsh, arrived in Lahore on 28 January and will be without a host of stars including Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, Glenn Maxwell, Tim David and Nathan Ellis. In their absence, Ashes hero Travis Head is poised to lead the side for the series opener. The selectors have turned to youth, confirming fast bowler Mahli Beardman, all-rounder Jack Edwards and batter Matthew Renshaw will all earn their maiden T20I caps.
Pakistan, meanwhile, have named a powerful squad headlined by the returns of superstar batter Babar Azam and spearhead quick Shaheen Shah Afridi. The selection of Babar comes despite his recent struggles in Australia’s Big Bash League. Notably, veteran Steve Smith was not included in Australia’s touring party, a decision confirmed by selectors earlier this month.
Key Facts: Pakistan vs Australia, 1st T20I
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Date & Time | 29 January 2026, 11:00 am local time (5:00 pm AEDT) |
| Venue | Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore |
| Series | Australia in Pakistan, 3-match T20I series |
| Australian Debutants | Mahli Beardman, Jack Edwards, Matthew Renshaw |
| Pakistan Captain | Salman Ali Agha |
| Head-to-Head (T20I) | 28 matches played |
Broadcast and Off-Field Developments
In a significant commercial blow to Pakistan cricket, Australian television networks have opted not to broadcast the bilateral series, citing low viewer interest. Fans will need to follow via digital streaming services and international broadcast partners. The series has also been promoted with a controversial advertisement featuring a ‘handshake’ dig at arch-rivals India, which drew criticism in the lead-up.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Australia’s team so under-strength?
Australia’s first-choice T20 players like Pat Cummins, Glenn Maxwell and Josh Hazlewood have travelled directly to Sri Lanka for an early acclimatisation camp ahead of the T20 World Cup, which begins in February. This series is seen as an opportunity to develop depth and give fringe players experience.
Who is captaining Pakistan?
All-rounder Salman Ali Agha will lead Pakistan in this series. He will also captain the 15-member squad at the T20 World Cup, as confirmed by the Pakistan Cricket Board four days ago. Star players Babar Azam and Shaheen Shah Afridi are in the squad but are not serving as captain.
What is at stake in this series?
Beyond the immediate result, both teams are using the three matches to finalise their best XI and combinations for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, which starts next month. For Pakistan, it is a chance to build momentum at home. For Australia’s young players, it is an audition for future World Cup squads.