As the T20 World Cup 2026 unfolds in India and Sri Lanka, the spotlight is not only on the matches but also on a significant trend in international cricket. While Pakistan fields its strongest team, the United States squad features three Pakistani-origin cricketers, highlighting the global influence of Pakistan’s cricketing talent.
The tournament includes not only traditional cricket powerhouses but also associate nations like the USA, Netherlands, Oman, UAE, Canada, and Italy. Remarkably, at least eight teams have players with Pakistani roots, emphasizing the depth of talent originating from Pakistan.
This phenomenon is both a testament to Pakistan’s cricketing prowess and a reflection of challenges within its domestic cricket structure. Former Pakistan wicketkeeper Atiq-uz-Zaman attributes this trend to governance issues, noting the lack of job security since the end of departmental cricket in Pakistan.
Despite differing opinions on the reasons behind this migration, the influence of Pakistani-origin players is undeniable. The UAE squad, for instance, includes nine players of Pakistani descent, while Zimbabwe’s captain, Sikandar Raza, also shares this heritage.
The presence of these players across various teams raises questions about the future of cricket in Pakistan and the opportunities available for emerging cricketers. As the world watches the T20 World Cup 2026, the impact of Pakistani-origin players is a narrative that continues to unfold.
Published in SouthAsianDesk, February 11th, 2026
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