February 2, 2026
Pakistan’s white-ball setup gained definition on Sunday when Salman Ali Agha spoke plainly about the team’s direction. Addressing the media, the skipper placed his backing behind Usman Khan, calling him the side’s first-choice option with the gloves and the bat. No hesitation. No mixed signals.
That clarity matters. Selection debates have hovered for months, especially around the wicketkeeper slot. Agha cut through the noise with a firm endorsement that echoed through the camp.
Usman Khan’s case rests on timing and output. His recent fifty, struck when Pakistan needed momentum, shifted the innings and lifted the final total. Agha pointed to that phase as decisive, highlighting how a wicketkeeper who scores briskly changes the shape of a chase or a push for late runs.
Behind the stumps, the trust has returned too. Since his comeback, Usman’s work has looked sharp. He brings safe hands, quick movement and the basics done right. That balance is central to the Pakistan T20 World Cup squad.
Khawaja Nafay remains part of the group and his striking ability has caught eyes. Short stays, high impact. Yet for now, management leans toward experience as the tournament nears.
Pakistan open their campaign in Colombo, with little room for trial and error. The Usman Khan wicketkeeper batter call signals stability, not experimentation. With the countdown on, roles are being locked in and the message from the captain was unmistakable.