Islamabad, Aug 11, 2025: With the West Indies tour nearing its conclusion, cricket fans are already eager for the next chapter as the Pakistan squad for UAE tri-nation series and Asia Cup 2025 is likely to be revealed within days.
Insider reports suggest the tri-series, involving Afghanistan and the UAE, could witness the return of emerging talent, with selectors keen on giving their pace battery some much-needed rest.
Pacer Salman Mirza and all-rounder Ahmed Daniyal—both impressive in the Bangladesh clashes—are strong contenders for a comeback, adding fresh firepower to the bowling attack.
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However, there’s a strategic twist. Star pacers Shaheen Shah Afridi and Haris Rauf might be rested for the tri-series to manage workloads, paving the way for newcomers to shine. Both speedsters are expected to be back in action for the Asia Cup, where Pakistan will require their full force.
The management is also considering a 16-member squad instead of the usual 15, with final decisions resting in the hands of head coach Mike Hesson and the captain post-West Indies tour.
A major boost comes in the form of Fakhar Zaman’s expected return. The explosive opener has been sidelined since suffering a hamstring injury against the West Indies, but rehabilitation updates are positive, and he is on track to feature in both the tri-series and the Asia Cup.
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The Pakistan Cricket Board is set to announce both squads next week. The tri-series kicks off on 29 August at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium, with Pakistan facing Afghanistan under lights. Teams will meet each other twice before the top two clash in the 7 September final.
For Pakistan, these matches are more than just preparation—they’re a testing ground for combinations, bench strength, and a statement of intent ahead of the Asia Cup 2025.
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