ISLAMABAD: Pakistan captain Shaheen Shah Afridi has confirmed that three players will make their international debut in the opening One-Day International of the three-match series against Bangladesh.
Pakistan have introduced significant changes to the squad for the tour, resting six senior players, including top-order batters Fakhar Zaman, Saim Ayub and former captain Babar Azam.
As a result, Sahibzada Farhan, Maaz Sadaqat and Shamyl Hussain are set to receive their debut caps in the series opener at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium on Wednesday.
According to Shaheen, Farhan and Maaz will open the innings for Pakistan, while Hussain is expected to bat at number three.
“There will be three debuts — Sahibzada Farhan, who has performed strongly in T20 cricket and also done well in List A matches for Pakistan. Maaz Sadaqat will open, and Shamyl Hussain will bat one down,” Shaheen told reporters.
Expressing optimism
The captain expressed optimism that the newcomers would perform confidently and make the most of the opportunity.
“I hope they play their natural game and display their skills. As a team, we are excited to see them represent Pakistan — not just for this series but also for the future,” he said.
Shaheen also addressed the absence of several senior players, explaining that they had not been dropped but were rested to allow younger players to gain international experience ahead of the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2027.
“No one has been dropped for this series. We simply want to provide opportunities to our young players because they are the future of the team,” he said.
“We are preparing our side for the World Cup, and this series gives the youngsters a chance to step up and prove their abilities.”
