Pakistan cricket squad begins training for Asian Games

Pakistan’s white-ball cricket squad has commenced a four-day training camp at the Hanif Mohammad High Performance Centre at the National Bank Stadium in Karachi. The camp serves as preparation for the men’s cricket tournament at the 2026 Asian Games in Japan.

Led by captain Sahibzada Farhan and vice-captain Abdul Samad, the 15-member squad is undergoing drills in batting, bowling, and fielding. The schedule includes a practice Twenty20 match at the Oval Ground on Wednesday and a centre-wicket scenario game on Thursday. The team is expected to depart for Japan on September 24 with a 21-member traveling party.

Several players, including Usman Khan, Saim Ayub, Maaz Sadaqat, Hasan Nawaz, and Sufiyan Muqeem, are scheduled to join the camp following their participation in the Caribbean Premier League. Due to a thumb fracture suffered by fast bowler Mohammad Salman Mirza, Mohammad Wasim Junior has been added to the squad as a replacement. The support staff is led by head coach Mike Hesson.