Pakistan Cricket Board announces 15-member ODI squad for Bangladesh series 2026. Babar Azam and Saim Ayub dropped while Shaheen Afridi continues as captain.

Pakistan Announce 15-Member ODI Squad for Bangladesh Series

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has announced a 15-member squad for the upcoming ODI series against Bangladesh.

The three-match ODI series will take place in Dhaka from March 11 to March 15, with all matches scheduled at Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium.

One of the biggest talking points from the squad announcement is the exclusion of former Pakistan captain Babar Azam.

Babar Azam and Saim Ayub Dropped from Squad

The PCB selectors have made major changes to the ODI team following Pakistan’s recent performances.

Former captain Babar Azam and opener Saim Ayub have both been left out of the squad.

According to reports, Babar’s recent form and Pakistan’s rebuilding plans ahead of future tournaments played a role in the decision.

Babar had a difficult ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 campaign, scoring only 91 runs in four matches.

Shaheen Afridi to Continue as Captain

Left-arm fast bowler Shaheen Shah Afridi will continue to lead the ODI side for the Bangladesh tour.

Selectors are focusing on a balanced squad combining experienced players and young talent.

Experienced players such as Mohammad Rizwan, Haris Rauf and Faheem Ashraf remain part of the squad.

Six New Players Included in the Squad

The new squad also features six uncapped players, signaling a fresh direction for Pakistan’s ODI team.

New Players Selected

• Abdul Samad
• Maaz Sadaqat
• Muhammad Ghazi Ghori
• Saad Masood
• Sahibzada Farhan
• Shamyl Hussain

These players impressed selectors with their performances in domestic cricket and Pakistan Shaheens matches.

Full Pakistan Squad for Bangladesh ODI Series

Pakistan vs Bangladesh ODI Series Schedule

Pakistan will arrive in Bangladesh on March 8, followed by a practice session on March 10.

What This Means for Pakistan Cricket

The squad announcement shows that Pakistan’s selectors are focusing on building a new ODI combination ahead of future ICC tournaments.

Young players will have the opportunity to prove themselves while senior players continue to provide stability.

Cricket analysts believe the Bangladesh series will be an important test for Pakistan’s new-look ODI team.

Also Read

• Pakistan Turn To Sarfaraz Ahmed For Test Head Coach Role
• Babar Azam dropped from Pakistan’s ODI squad for Bangladesh tour
• Shaheen Shah Afridi To Captain Pakistan In Bangladesh ODI Series

Frequently Asked Questions

Why was Babar Azam dropped from the ODI squad?

Babar Azam was reportedly left out due to recent performance concerns and team restructuring plans by the selectors.

Who is leading Pakistan in the Bangladesh ODI series?

Fast bowler Shaheen Shah Afridi will captain the Pakistan ODI team.

How many ODIs will Pakistan play against Bangladesh?

Pakistan will play three ODI matches against Bangladesh.

When will the Pakistan vs Bangladesh ODI series start?

The series will start on March 11, 2026.

Where will the matches be played?

All matches will be played at Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium in Dhaka.