The Pakistan Cricket Board has appointed Salman Agha as T20I captain, replacing Mohammad Rizwan, who held the position for less than five months. Agha will lead the team in an upcoming T20I series against New Zealand, with Shadab Khan as vice-captain. Rizwan will continue as the ODI captain, emphasizing preparation for upcoming tournaments.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has announced the removal of Mohammad Rizwan as the T20I captain, effective immediately. Rizwan, who took over the role in October, has been succeeded by Salman Ali Agha, the former vice-captain. Agha will lead Pakistan in a five-match T20I series against New Zealand, with Shadab Khan appointed as his vice-captain, following his omission from the Champions Trophy 2025 squad.
Despite his dismissal as T20I captain, Rizwan will maintain his position as captain of the ODI team, with Agha serving as his deputy for three upcoming 50-over matches. The PCB emphasized that the decision to appoint Agha and Khan was made with a focus on preparing for significant tournaments like the ACC Men’s T20 Asia Cup 2025 and the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026.
The PCB noted that they are looking forward to the development of the team, with hopes pinned on the upcoming World Cups. Rizwan, along with Babar Azam, has been omitted from the T20I squad for the New Zealand tour. In contrast, the squad will feature three uncapped players, namely Abdul Samad, Hasan Nawaz, and Mohammad Ali.
Former fast bowler Aqib Javed will serve as the interim head coach during the New Zealand tour, having been asked to prolong his term until a permanent coach has been appointed. The T20I series in New Zealand will commence on March 16, followed by ODIs starting on March 29.
In summary, Mohammad Rizwan has been relieved of his duties as captain of the Pakistan T20I team, with Salman Ali Agha stepping into the role. As Pakistan prepares for crucial upcoming tournaments, Agha and Shadab Khan will lead the team in the T20I series against New Zealand, while Rizwan will continue to captain the ODI team. This strategic leadership change underscores the PCB’s focus on strengthening the team for future challenges.
Original Source: www.news18.com
