PCB plans young team for New Zealand T20I series

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is set to introduce young players in the upcoming T20I series against New Zealand following the national team’s disappointing performance in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, sources confirmed.

Domestic cricketers have been called to Lahore for the selection process, and a meeting between young players and PCB officials is expected soon.

Pakistan will depart for New Zealand on March 12, with the five-match T20I series starting on March 16. This move aligns with the board’s long-term preparations for the 2026 T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka.

Former cricketer Rashid Latif has suggested several young players for selection, including Hassan Nawaz, Ali Raza, Abdul Samad, Akif Javed, and Muhammad Nafay.

He also endorsed all-rounder Shadab Khan as a strong candidate for captaincy. Other probable squad members include Muhammad Haris, Sufyan Muqeem, Arafat Minhas, and Zaman Khan.

Meanwhile, several senior players, including Shaheen Afridi, Haris Rauf, Naseem Shah, and Babar Azam, are reportedly considering a break from international cricket following their underwhelming Champions Trophy campaign.

Pakistan was eliminated from the tournament after heavy defeats to India and New Zealand, while their match against Bangladesh was washed out.