Sahibzada Farhan Named Pakistan Captain for Asian Games 2026

Pakistan have entrusted experienced top-order batter Sahibzada Farhan with captaincy duties for the upcoming Asian Games 2026, with the national selectors unveiling a 15-player squad for the tournament in Japan.

The men's cricket competition will begin on September 24 in Aichi Prefecture, while the medal matches are scheduled for October 3. Ten nations will battle for honours at Korogi Athletic Park as cricket returns to the continental stage.

The announcement places Farhan at the center of Pakistan's campaign. The 30-year-old arrives with substantial experience, having represented the country in 46 T20 internationals. Across those appearances, he has amassed 1,305 runs, including two centuries and ten half-centuries.

His appointment signals confidence in a player who has remained a consistent performer in domestic white-ball cricket.

Abdul Samad has been named vice-captain. The right-hander has already earned international exposure through five T20I appearances and will serve as Farhan's deputy throughout the event.

Young Talent Earns Opportunity in Pakistan Squad

The Pakistan Asian Games Squad features a blend of established names and emerging prospects. Four players selected for the tournament are still waiting for their T20I debuts for Pakistan.

Fast bowler Akif Javed, promising pacer Ali Raza, batting all-rounder Maaz Sadaqat and youngster Saad Masood have all received opportunities after strong performances on the domestic circuit.

Several players in the squad are already involved in the National Cricket Academy's white-ball preparations. In fact, 14 of the 15 selected players are expected to participate in the NCA White-Ball Camp beginning June 15 in Lahore.

The Sahibzada Farhan Captain decision comes as Pakistan continue to develop depth ahead of a packed international calendar. Team management appears keen to provide leadership experience to players operating just outside the regular senior setup.

Alongside Farhan and Samad, the squad includes Abrar Ahmed, Ahmed Daniyal, Arafat Minhas, Haider Ali, Hasan Nawaz, Mohammad Salman Mirza, Saim Ayub, Sufyan Moqim and wicketkeeper Usman Khan.

Support staff for the campaign will be headed by Mike Hesson, who takes charge as head coach. He will be assisted by bowling coach Ashley Noffke, fielding coach Shane McDermott, physiotherapist Muhammad Tahir, trainer Imran Ullah and analyst-cum-team operations coordinator Usman Hashmi.

With a mixture of international experience and fresh faces, Pakistan will head to Japan hoping this group can make a serious push for the podium when the Asian Games cricket tournament gets underway later this year.