ISLAMABAD : The series will be played in Lahore next week and will serve as Pakistan’s final assignment before the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, which will be hosted in India and Sri Lanka. Both teams are set to depart for the global tournament immediately after the series.

Afridi’s inclusion marks his first appearance since being sidelined from the BBL last month, strengthening Pakistan’s pace attack alongside Naseem Shah, Mohammad Wasim Jnr, Faheem Ashraf and Salman Mirza. The spin department features Abrar Ahmed, Shadab Khan, Mohammad Nawaz and Usman Tariq, offering variety ahead of conditions expected at the World Cup.

Khawaja Mohammad Nafay, who impressed on debut in Sri Lanka earlier this month, has retained his place as the designated wicketkeeper, with Sahibzada Farhan and Usman Khan providing additional options behind the stumps. Salman Ali Agha has been named captain for the series, while Fakhar Zaman, Saim Ayub and Sahibzada Farhan bolster the batting line-up.

Babar’s selection follows widespread speculation over his form after a difficult BBL season. Despite criticism and calls from former Australian players to drop him at franchise level, selectors have backed the senior batter to rediscover form ahead of the World Cup.

In contrast, pacer Haris Rauf, who was among the leading wicket-takers in the BBL this season, has been left out. Rauf has not featured in a T20I since the Asia Cup final against India, where an expensive spell proved costly, and is believed to have slipped down the pecking order.

With Pakistan set to play the opening match of the T20 World Cup against the Netherlands on 7 February in Colombo, the Australia series is expected to be the final audition for players hoping to cement their places for the marquee tournament.

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