Head to lead Australia in the first T20I

Head leads Australia; Pakistan welcome Babar, Afridi
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Head to lead Australia in the first T20I
Travis Head is set to captain Australia in the opening Twenty20 International against Pakistan on January 29, 2026 at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium .  Australia — fielding a relatively under‑strength side — have named a mix of youth and experience, with Head taking charge as a new leader for this tri‑match series.  The series marks an important preparatory phase ahead of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 , coming soon after this home bilateral tour for Pakistan.  However, the build‑up has suffered a commercial setback with Australian broadcasters opting not to telecast the series live in Australia due to low expected viewership and late local start times — a rare issue for a marquee touring side. Pakistan’s focus: Babar Azam and Shaheen Afridi return Pakistan have approached this series with a full‑strength squad after missing senior players in the recent Sri Lanka series.  Chief among the stories is the return of Babar Azam and Shaheen Shah Afridi : Babar Azam — Pakistan’s premier batter — has rejoi…