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July 1, 2025

Pakistan Shaheens set for Top End T20 Series return in Darwin

Pakistan Shaheens set for Top End T20 Series return in Darwin
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Pakistan Shaheens are scheduled to return to Darwin next month for the Top End T20 Series at TIO Stadium, marking the start of their international exposure tour in Australia. The series, saddled with rising anticipation, will feature matchups against Australian A-sides and BBL academy teams – complementing recent planning for senior international fixtures in the Northern Territory.

The Top End T20 Series acts as a key warm-up for the Big Bash League season. Pakistan Shaheens previously participated in last year’s edition, surviving group stages with five wins out of seven matches before bowing out in the semi-final to Adelaide Strikers Academy.

The 2025 edition will again leave Darwin buzzing, as team selectors aim to test young talent ahead of a planned senior South African T20I series in Darwin—reviving international cricket in the Northern Territory for the first time in 17 years.

While the full squad is yet to be revealed, last year’s captain Mohammad Haris is expected to lead again, bolstered by in-form pacers and spinners who impressed during the 2024 campaign. Notable backers include:

  • Mohammad Abbas Afridi, who hit a rapid fifty in last year’s semi-final
     
  • Spinners Jahandad Khan and Arif Yaqoob, both fight-worthy in Australia’s conditions
     
  • Batsmen Sahibzada Farhan, Usman Khan, and Arafat Minhas, all part of last year’s tour squad

Cricket Australia is in active discussions to host a T20I series with South Africa in August, including Darwin as one of the venues. That move would make the Shaheens tour part of broader intent to boost interstate cricket in the Northern Territory.

The Shaheens will showcase emerging talent destined for Pakistan A or senior selection. They'll face Cricket Australia Academy teams and BBL academy outfits.

This series could pave the way for upcoming senior men's T20 fixtures against South Africa, marking a watershed moment for cricket in Australia’s north.


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