PAK vs AUS T20I 2026: Full Schedule, Squads, Livestreaming and What to Expect
PAK vs AUS T20I 2026: Full Schedule, Squads, Match Timings & Live Streaming
Pakistan and Australia are set for a high-intensity clash as both teams lock horns in a three-match T20I series, beginning Thursday, January 29, at the iconic Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore. The PAK vs AUS T20I 2026 series is being viewed as the final competitive rehearsal for both sides ahead of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka.
With just days left before the global tournament, this series offers both teams a chance to fine-tune combinations, manage workloads, and test bench strength under match pressure.
Table of Contents:
Why the PAK vs AUS T20I 2026 Series ?
Although it is a bilateral series on paper, the context makes it far more significant.
Key Reasons This Series Is Crucial
- Acts as the final preparation phase before the T20 World Cup
- Provides match practice in subcontinental conditions
- Allows captains to experiment with playing XIs and roles
- Helps assess player fitness and form before squad finalisation
For Pakistan, this series is also about restoring momentum after a disappointing T20I run earlier in the season. For Australia, it is about adapting quickly without several first-choice players.
Ireland vs Pakistan Warm-Up Match T20 World Cup 2026
PAK vs AUS T20I 2026: Full Schedule
All three matches will be played in Lahore, ensuring consistent pitch and weather conditions.
| Match | Date | Venue | Time (IST) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1st T20I | January 29, 2026 | Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore | 4:30 PM |
| 2nd T20I | January 31, 2026 | Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore | 4:30 PM |
| 3rd T20I | February 1, 2026 | Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore | 4:30 PM |
Squads Overview: Pakistan vs Australia
Both teams have named strong squads, though Australia will be missing several marquee names due to workload management and rest policies.
Pakistan Squad
Pakistan will be led by Salman Ali Agha, continuing the leadership transition phase.
Pakistan Squad:
- Salman Ali Agha (c)
- Abrar Ahmed
- Babar Azam
- Faheem Ashraf
- Fakhar Zaman
- Khawaja Nafay
- Mohammad Nawaz
- Salman Mirza
- Mohammad Wasim
- Naseem Shah
- Sahibzada Farhan
- Saim Ayub
- Shaheen Shah Afridi
- Shadab Khan
- Usman Khan
- Usman Tariq
Key Talking Points (Pakistan):
- Babar Azam remains under spotlight after an underwhelming Big Bash League
- Shaheen Afridi returns after recovering from injury
- Haris Rauf is a notable omission despite strong recent form
Australia Squad
Australia arrive with a youthful yet balanced squad, led by Mitchell Marsh.
Australia Squad:
- Mitchell Marsh (c)
- Sean Abbott
- Xavier Bartlett
- Mahli Beardman
- Cooper Connolly
- Ben Dwarshuis
- Jack Edwards
- Cameron Green
- Travis Head
- Josh Inglis
- Matthew Kuhnemann
- Mitch Owen
- Josh Philippe
- Matthew Renshaw
- Matt Short
- Marcus Stoinis
- Adam Zampa
Players Not Available:
- Pat Cummins
- Josh Hazlewood
- Tim David
- Nathan Ellis
- Glenn Maxwell (rested)
Additionally, reports suggest Mitchell Marsh and Josh Inglis may miss the first T20I, adding an extra layer of unpredictability.
Comparison: Pakistan vs Australia – Squad Balance
| Aspect | Pakistan | Australia |
|---|---|---|
| Captain | Salman Ali Agha | Mitchell Marsh |
| Batting Depth | Strong top order | Explosive middle order |
| All-rounders | Shadab, Nawaz, Faheem | Green, Stoinis, Connolly |
| Pace Attack | Shaheen, Naseem, Wasim | Abbott, Bartlett, Dwarshuis |
| Spin Options | Abrar, Shadab, Usman Tariq | Zampa, Kuhnemann |
The PAK vs AUS T20I 2026 series promises a fascinating contrast between Pakistan’s pace-spin balance and Australia’s power-packed batting approach.
Players to Watch
Pakistan –
- Babar Azam: Under pressure to rediscover T20 form
- Shaheen Shah Afridi: Fitness and rhythm ahead of World Cup
- Abrar Ahmed: Key spinner in middle overs
Australia –
- Travis Head: Aggressive starts at the top
- Adam Zampa: Crucial on Lahore’s slower surfaces
- Cameron Green: X-factor all-rounder
Pitch and Conditions at Gaddafi Stadium
Lahore traditionally offers:
- Good batting conditions early
- Assistance for spinners as the game progresses
- Dew in evening matches, influencing toss decisions
Teams winning the toss may prefer to chase, especially under lights.
PAK vs AUS T20I 2026: Livestreaming Details
Cricket fans can watch the series live through digital platforms.
Where to Watch:
- Livestream: FanCode app
- Match Start Time: 4:30 PM IST
T20 World Cup 2026 Warm-Up Matches Full Schedule: India Matches, Venues, and Key Fixtures
Q&A: PAK vs AUS T20I 2026
Q1. How many matches are in the series?
Three T20 Internationals.
Q2. Where are the matches being played?
All matches will be held at Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore.
Q3. Is this series linked to the T20 World Cup?
It is not part of the tournament but serves as final preparation.
Q4. Are senior Australian players missing?
Yes, several key players are rested due to workload management.
Final Thoughts
The PAK vs AUS T20I 2026 series is more than just a bilateral contest. With the T20 World Cup just around the corner, every over, experiment, and performance will be closely scrutinized. Pakistan will aim to build confidence at home, while Australia will focus on adaptability and squad depth.
With contrasting styles, star power on both sides, and World Cup momentum at stake, fans can expect competitive, fast-paced cricket across all three matches.
About The Author
