Abbas Afridi to lead Pakistan's title defence at Hong Kong Sixes 2026
Pakistan have kept faith with Abbas Afridi, retaining the fast bowler as captain for the Hong Kong Sixes 2026 as the Green Shirts prepare to defend the crown they lifted last year. The squad was confirmed on Friday, with the team scheduled to depart for Hong Kong on October 28.
The announcement keeps the core of the side that won the 2025 edition intact, with two fresh faces coming into the seven-man group. Pakistan will enter the tournament as defending champions after claiming a record sixth title last November.
Pakistan squad for Hong Kong Sixes 2026
| Player | Role |
|---|---|
| Abbas Afridi | Captain, fast bowler |
| Abdul Samad | Batter |
| Ahmed Daniyal | All-rounder |
| Muhammad Irfan Khan | Batter |
| Khawaja Nafay | Batter |
| Muhammad Shahzad | Batter |
| Saad Masood | Bowler |
Raza Kichlu will travel with the side as team manager. Ahmed Daniyal and Muhammad Irfan Khan are the two new inclusions in a squad that otherwise mirrors the group which won the title in 2025.
Tournament format and Pakistan’s group
The Hong Kong Sixes 2026 will be played from October 30 to November 1, with 12 teams divided into four groups. Pakistan have been placed in Group C. Each match is a six-a-side contest of five overs per innings, a format built for power hitting and rapid finishes.
The group stage throws up an early marquee fixture, with Pakistan set to face India on October 30. India have named veteran seamer Bhuvneshwar Kumar as their captain for the event.
Why the title defence matters
Pakistan have a rich history in this tournament, and last year’s triumph was their sixth title, the most by any team. The Green Shirts beat the field in 2025 to reaffirm their reputation as the side to beat in the shortest format of the game.
Retaining Afridi as captain signals continuity. The pacer led the side to the title last year, and the decision suggests the team management values a settled leadership group for a format where momentum can swing in a single over.
When is the Hong Kong Sixes 2026?
The tournament runs from October 30 to November 1, with Pakistan’s squad departing on October 28.
Who is captaining Pakistan at the Hong Kong Sixes 2026?
Fast bowler Abbas Afridi has been retained as captain after leading Pakistan to the title in 2025.
When do Pakistan play India at the Hong Kong Sixes 2026?
The group-stage clash between Pakistan and India is scheduled for October 30.
How many teams are taking part?
Twelve teams will compete, split into four groups, with Pakistan drawn in Group C.
Related: India name Bhuvneshwar Kumar-led squad for Hong Kong Sixes 2026
