The Pakistan cricket team has undergone an important change ahead of the men’s cricket competitions of the 2026 Asian Games being held in Japan. Fast bowler Salman Mirza has been ruled out of the squad due to a fracture in his thumb.
Mohammad Wasim Jr Included in Place of Salman Mirza
Fast bowler Mohammad Wasim Jr has been included in the national squad in place of Salman Mirza. Salman Mirza has suffered a fracture in his left thumb.
Due to his injury, Salman Mirza will miss participation in the men’s cricket event at the Asian Games. His full fitness is expected to be restored by the first week of October.
Cricket Competitions to Begin on September 24
The men’s T20 cricket competitions at the Asian Games will begin on September 24. A total of 10 teams are participating in the event.
India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Afghanistan and hosts Japan have directly qualified. Nepal, Malaysia, Hong Kong and Oman will play the qualifying stage.
Pakistan’s First Quarter-Final on September 28
The Pakistani team, led by Sahibzada Farhan, will play its first quarter-final on September 28. The national team will face the team coming through the qualifying stage.
Departure for Japan on September 24
The Pakistani team will depart for Japan on the night of September 24. Before the important Asian Games matches, the national players will finalise their preparations during the training camp in Karachi.
Pakistan has received its first medal at the 2026 Asian Games.
According to details, Karachi-based Asim Khan faced defeat in the Mixed Martial Arts semifinal.
Under the rules, Asim Khan managed to win the bronze medal, while the medal ceremony will be held tomorrow.
Speaking to a private media outlet, Dilawar Khan, who is performing the responsibilities of team leader alongside Asim Khan at the Games, said that Asim Khan has opened Pakistan’s medal account, adding that he is confident Pakistan will also manage to win medals in the remaining events.