Pakistan likely to make Sahibzada Farhan T20I captain beyond Asian Games 2026

Dubai: Sahibzada Farhan, the captain of Pakistan's T20 team for the Asian Games 2026, has hinted at the possibility of continuing his leadership role beyond the tournament. While the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has not yet made a permanent decision on Farhan's captaincy, he has expressed openness to the idea. Farhan, appointed for the Asian Games in Japan, said, "If I get the opportunity, why not continue in the future as well?"

During a media interaction at the team's pre-departure training camp in Karachi. The PCB and selection committee are expected to make their decision regarding Farhan's future after the tournament. Reports suggest that the PCB is considering Farhan as part of its long-term T20 leadership plans. Pakistan is currently in the quarter-finals of the Asian Games, having entered at the top of the Asian Games standings.

Their first match is scheduled for September 28, followed by the semi-finals on October 1 and medal matches on October 3. At present, the team's focus is on the Asian Games, with Farhan stating, "Right now, the entire focus is on the Asian Games." Pakistan is also using the tournament to nurture a younger squad, with players Akif Javed, Ali Raza, Maaz Sadaqat, and Saad Masood set to make their T20I debuts in Japan.

Farhan expressed confidence in the younger players, emphasizing that selection will be based on performance rather than seniority. The team has been preparing for Japan's slower playing conditions through specialized practice wickets and scenario-based matches during their camp in Karachi. In the Asian Games, Pakistan will face the runners-up from Group B, which includes Malaysia, Hong Kong, and Oman.