Babar Azam, Shaheen Afridi and Shadab Khan return as Pakistan name strong ODI squad for Australia series

Pakistan have announced a powerful squad for the upcoming three-match ODI series against Australia, recalling several senior players who were absent during the recent Bangladesh series.

The squad marks the return of Babar Azam, Shadab Khan, Naseem Shah, Haris Rauf and Sufyan Moqim, giving Pakistan a far more experienced look ahead of an important home assignment.

Fast bowler Shaheen Shah Afridi will lead the side, while Salman Ali Agha has been named vice-captain for the series beginning on May 30.

Big Names Return to Strengthen Pakistan

Pakistan's ODI setup looks significantly stronger with the return of several established match-winners.

Babar Azam's comeback adds stability and experience to the batting lineup, while Haris Rauf and Naseem Shah provide pace and wicket-taking ability.

Shadab Khan's inclusion also improves the balance of the squad with his all-round skills and leadership experience.

Shaheen Afridi to Captain the Team

Shaheen Shah Afridi has been entrusted with captaincy duties for the series.

The left-arm fast bowler remains one of Pakistan's most important players across formats and will now lead a side aiming to continue its recent ODI success against Australia.

Pakistan defeated Australia 2-1 in their last bilateral ODI series in late 2024, ending a 22-year wait for a one-day series win in Australia.

Mohammad Rizwan Left Out

One of the biggest talking points from the squad announcement was the absence of Mohammad Rizwan.

According to reports, the wicketkeeper-batter has been left out following a disappointing Pakistan Super League season.

His omission signals a willingness from selectors to make bold decisions as they begin planning toward the 2027 ODI World Cup.

Fakhar Zaman and Saim Ayub Miss Out Through Injury

Pakistan will, however, be without two important top-order batters.

Fakhar Zaman and Saim Ayub were not considered for selection due to ongoing injury rehabilitation under the PCB medical panel.

Their absence leaves Pakistan without two aggressive left-handed opening options.

Uncapped Players Earn Opportunities

The squad also includes three players who are yet to make their ODI debuts:

• Ahmed Daniyal
• Arafat Minhas
• Rohail Nazir

All three have already represented Pakistan in T20 internationals and are now in line for opportunities in the 50-over format.

Young Talent Continues to Get Backing

Pakistan's selectors appear focused on building squad depth ahead of future ICC tournaments.

Alongside experienced names, youngsters such as Maaz Sadaqat and Shamyl Hussain continue to receive backing as part of the team's long-term planning.

Australia Also Managing Squad Changes

Australia are expected to travel with a relatively inexperienced ODI squad due to IPL scheduling complications and workload management.

Several senior Australian players, including Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood, are unavailable because of IPL commitments and rest periods.

Series Schedule

The three-match ODI series will be played entirely in Pakistan:

• 1st ODI: May 30 – Rawalpindi
• 2nd ODI: June 2 – Lahore
• 3rd ODI: June 4 – Lahore

Australia are scheduled to arrive in Islamabad on May 23 ahead of the series.

Pakistan ODI Squad

Shaheen Shah Afridi (captain), Salman Ali Agha (vice-captain), Abdul Samad, Abrar Ahmed, Ahmed Daniyal, Arafat Minhas, Babar Azam, Haris Rauf, Maaz Sadaqat, Muhammad Ghazi Ghori (wk), Rohail Nazir (wk), Naseem Shah, Sahibzada Farhan, Shadab Khan, Shamyl Hussain and Sufyan Moqim.

Strong Pace Attack a Major Weapon

With Shaheen Afridi, Haris Rauf and Naseem Shah all available, Pakistan once again possess one of the most dangerous fast-bowling attacks in world cricket.

The trio's ability to strike early and dominate the middle overs could prove decisive on home surfaces.

Babar Azam Back Under Spotlight

As always, much attention will fall on Babar Azam.

The former captain remains Pakistan's most important batter in ODI cricket and will be expected to anchor the innings against Australia.

His return significantly strengthens the team's batting lineup.

What This Series Means

With the 2027 ODI World Cup still over a year away, Pakistan are beginning to shape the core of their future one-day side.

The Australia series provides an opportunity to combine experienced match-winners with emerging players in high-pressure contests.

Final Word

Pakistan have responded to recent criticism by naming a much stronger ODI squad for the Australia series, bringing back several of their biggest stars.

With Babar Azam, Shaheen Afridi, Shadab Khan and Haris Rauf all returning, the hosts will believe they have the firepower to challenge Australia at home.

As preparations for the 2027 World Cup begin to intensify, the upcoming ODI series could offer an important glimpse into Pakistan's future direction.

This article is an original summary created for publishing purposes based on publicly available squad announcements and official reports.