COLOMBO, Sri Lanka — In a dramatic turn of events at the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, former Pakistani international Ehsan Adil made his debut for the United States national team today, February 10, 2026, facing off against the very nation he represented a decade ago.
The 32-year-old right-arm fast bowler was approved as a late injury replacement for Jasdeep Singh by the ICC Event Technical Committee. Adil, who relocated to the United States to pursue his cricketing career under the American flag, was handed his cap just before the high-stakes group stage match against Pakistan.
A Full-Circle Moment in Colombo
Adil’s appearance in the USA colors marks a significant milestone in international cricket. Born in Sheikhupura, Pakistan, Adil rose to prominence during the 2012 ICC Under-19 World Cup and quickly transitioned to the senior Pakistani side. Between 2013 and 2015, he earned three Test caps and appeared in six One Day Internationals (ODIs) for Pakistan, including a stint in the 2015 World Cup.
After being sidelined from the Pakistani national setup and the Pakistan Super League (PSL) for several years, Adil moved to the U.S., where he qualified to represent the national team through residency. His debut today saw him taking the new ball for the USA, a moment described by commentators as a “poetic return” to the world stage.
Impact on the USA Squad
The addition of the 6’4″ pacer provides the United States with much-needed experience and height in their bowling department. The USA squad has been dealing with several roster adjustments, including visa clearance hurdles for players of Pakistani origin earlier in the tournament cycle.
According to live match reports from Colombo, Adil was involved in early action, nearly securing a breakthrough in his opening over. While a USA review for an LBW shout showed the ball only clipping the stumps, Adil’s presence has already added a layer of tactical depth to the American pace attack.
Key Facts About Ehsan Adil’s Career
- Born: March 15, 1993, in Sheikhupura, Pakistan.
- International Debut (Pakistan): Test match vs. South Africa, February 2013.
- International Debut (USA): T20I vs. Pakistan, February 10, 2026.
- Physical Profile: 6’4″ tall, known for a strong, high-arm bowling action.
- Domestic Experience: Previously played for Faisalabad Wolves and MI New York in Major League Cricket (MLC).
The USA continues its campaign in the T20 World Cup 2026, looking to capitalize on Adil’s veteran knowledge of South Asian conditions and his intimate understanding of the Pakistani batting lineup.