Pakistan’s Leadership Gamble: Can Salman Agha and Shadab Khan Deliver, or Is Another Disaster Looming?

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has announced significant leadership changes ahead of the national team’s upcoming tour to New Zealand. Salman Ali Agha has been appointed as the T20I captain, with Shadab Khan serving as vice-captain. Mohammad Rizwan will continue to lead the ODI squad.

These decisions come in the wake of Pakistan’s disastrous performance in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, where the team failed to secure a single win and was eliminated in the group stages. Notably, the match against Bangladesh was washed out, leaving both teams without a win in the tournament.

The PCB’s choice to appoint Salman Ali Agha as the T20I captain has raised concerns among cricket analysts and fans. Salman, known for his Test cricket temperament and style, may face challenges adapting to the aggressive and fast-paced nature of T20 cricket. Similarly, Shadab Khan’s appointment as vice-captain has been met with skepticism, given his recent exclusion from the national team due to subpar performances.

Critics argue that these leadership changes, executed by the same selection committee responsible for the recent Champions Trophy squad, may not yield the desired improvements. Former cricketers, including Wasim Akram, have called for a comprehensive overhaul of Pakistan’s white-ball cricket strategy, emphasizing the need for fresh talent and a more dynamic approach.

Without addressing the underlying issues within the selection and coaching staff, the PCB risks continued underperformance in future tournaments. A strategic reassessment and potential restructuring may be necessary to revitalize Pakistan’s cricketing fortunes on the international stage.

Syed Nayyar Uddin Ahmad