Is Salman Agha Set to Become Pakistan's All-Format Captain?
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Synopsis
Salman Agha is reportedly poised to be appointed as Pakistan's all-format cricket captain following strong recommendations from selectors and coach Mike Hesson. With the current captain Mohammad Rizwan facing criticism, Agha's leadership could bring a fresh perspective to the team.
Key Takeaways
- Salman Agha is likely to become Pakistan's all-format captain.
- Selectors and coach Mike Hesson support Agha's appointment.
- Current captain Mohammad Rizwan faces criticism and potential removal.
- Pakistan's recent performance has been disappointing.
- The captaincy decision will be announced post-Eid.
New Delhi, June 5 (NationPress) Salman Agha is poised to take over as Pakistan's all-format national cricket team captain, having made a significant impression on selectors and new white-ball head coach Mike Hesson, as reported.
As stated by Telecomasia.net, the 31-year-old was designated as the Twenty20 international captain for the Zimbabwe tour to offer regular captain Mohammad Rizwan a breather, but Agha’s clarity and determination have caught the attention of the selectors.
According to Telecomasia.net, "Salman has garnered positive feedback from the selection committee, the new head coach Hesson, and notably, the chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board Mohsin Naqvi. There is a consensus that he should lead the team in all formats."
A formal announcement regarding this decision is expected to be made after the Eid holidays, likely by next week.
This move indicates that ODI skipper Mohammad Rizwan has fallen out of favor with the PCB and the selection committee, significantly influenced by Aaqib Javed.
Rizwan had disagreements with Aaqib during the New Zealand tour, where Pakistan suffered a 3-0 ODI series loss and faced public criticism regarding selection decisions.
Pakistan’s ODI series defeat in New Zealand came after a disappointing Champions Trophy campaign where they exited in the first round.
Additionally, Test captain Shan Masood is also rumored to be replaced after Pakistan's poor performance, losing 9 out of 12 Tests since December 2023.
Masood faced significant criticism, particularly after a 2-0 home defeat to Bangladesh, marking Pakistan's first loss against the lower-ranked team.
Pakistan also managed a 1-1 draw against the West Indies last year, which left them at the bottom of the World Test Championship's standings.
Telicomasia.net added, "Masood's timid captaincy and personal performance contributed to his anticipated removal, paving the way for Salman to step in."
Pakistan is scheduled to tour Bangladesh for a three-match T20I series on July 20, 22, and 24. They will then face the West Indies in five T20Is in the USA and the Caribbean.
For Tests, Pakistan will host South Africa for a two-match series in October. In the upcoming World Test Championship (2025-2027), they will also host Sri Lanka and New Zealand, while touring Bangladesh, the West Indies, and England.
Point of View
It is essential to recognize the shifting dynamics within the Pakistan cricket team. The potential appointment of Salman Agha as captain indicates a strategic pivot aimed at revitalizing the team's performance. This decision reflects the PCB’s commitment to enhancing team morale and competitiveness on the international stage.
NationPress
08/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Salman Agha?
Salman Agha is a 31-year-old cricketer who has recently been appointed as the captain for Pakistan's T20I team and is being considered for the all-format captaincy.
Why is Mohammad Rizwan being replaced?
Mohammad Rizwan's performance and disagreements with selectors, particularly Aaqib Javed, have led to his potential replacement as captain.
What has been Pakistan's recent performance?
Pakistan has faced significant challenges, including a 3-0 ODI series loss in New Zealand and poor outcomes in the World Test Championship.
When will the captaincy decision be announced?
The decision regarding the captaincy is expected to be announced after the Eid holidays, likely next week.
What upcoming series does Pakistan have?
Pakistan is set to tour Bangladesh for a three-match T20I series in July, followed by five T20Is against the West Indies.
