Pakistan’s cricket squad sees a major overhaul as Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan are dropped from the T20I team for the series against New Zealand. Salman Ali Agha will now lead the team, with Shadab Khan as deputy. A range of new players has been introduced, while significant injuries also affect the lineup, reflecting a strategic shift following recent poor performances.
In a significant shift in Pakistan’s cricket landscape, premier batsman Babar Azam and captain Mohammad Rizwan have been excluded from the T20I lineup for the upcoming series against New Zealand. Salman Ali Agha has been appointed as the new captain, with Shadab Khan entrusted as his deputy, marking a considerable change in the team’s leadership structure.
The decision to drop Rizwan comes as he maintains his role as captain in One Day Internationals (ODIs). Notably, pace bowlers Shaheen Shah Afridi and Haris Rauf have also been left out of the ODI squad, highlighting the team’s strategic pivot following a dismal performance at the ongoing Champions Trophy.
These changes have been confirmed by the Pakistan Cricket Board, aiming to enhance the team’s competitiveness ahead of major tournaments like the ACC Men’s T20 Asia Cup 2025 and the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026. Under Agha’s leadership, Pakistan previously secured a T20I series win against Zimbabwe last year.
The updated T20I roster features new talents such as Abdul Samad, Hasan Nawaz, and Mohammad Ali, while Akif Javed and Mohammad Ali have been introduced to the ODI team. Significant absences in both formats include Fakhar Zaman and Saim Ayub, who are sidelined due to injuries but are expected to return for the upcoming Pakistan Super League season.
Aqib Javed will continue to serve as interim head coach during the New Zealand tour. His contract was initially set to end after the ICC Champions Trophy, but he remains in charge while the search for a permanent head coach is underway. Additionally, Mohammad Yousuf has been appointed as the batting coach.
The T20I series against New Zealand is scheduled from March 16 to 26, followed by three ODIs that commence on March 29. The selected squads underline Pakistan’s intent to revitalize their approach in international cricket while preparing for significant upcoming competitions.
In summary, the Pakistan cricket team has undergone major adjustments in leadership and player selection, dropping prominent figures Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan from the T20I format. New captain Salman Ali Agha is tasked with leading the team into upcoming series as they prepare for future international challenges. The changes reflect Pakistan’s strategic priorities amidst a disappointing Champions Trophy campaign.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
