Pakistan Likely to Appoint Shadab Khan as New T20 Captain After Asia Cup Debacle

Pakistan cricket is set for another leadership shake-up after their disappointing run in the 2025 Asia Cup, where they lost all three encounters against India, including the final. Reports from Pakistani media indicate that Salman Ali Agha is likely to be removed as captain, with Shadab Khan expected to take over the T20 reins.

Shadab Khan Set for Comeback and Captaincy

All-rounder Shadab Khan, who has been sidelined due to a shoulder injury since June, is reportedly recovering well and will be fit by next month. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is planning to hand him the T20 captaincy upon his return.

Shadab has significant leadership experience — he has captained Pakistan in the past and also led teams in the Pakistan Super League (PSL). With 70 ODIs and 112 T20Is under his belt, he is seen as a more seasoned and tactically sound option.

PCB Loses Faith in Salman Agha

The PCB’s trust in current captain Salman Ali Agha has dwindled after his poor run both as a leader and a batsman. During the Asia Cup, his tactical decisions drew criticism, and his personal form added to the woes — just 72 runs in 7 matches at a strike rate of 80.

Salman Agha’s Struggling Numbers

In T20Is overall, Salman’s record has been underwhelming:

• Matches: 30

• Runs: 561

• Average: 23.37

• Strike Rate: 110

Such figures have made it difficult for the PCB to justify his place in the playing XI, let alone as captain.

Upcoming Series to Decide Leadership

The upcoming T20 tri-series between Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and Afghanistan is expected to be the testing ground for the new setup. If all goes as planned, Shadab Khan will return as captain, aiming to bring balance and aggression back into Pakistan’s T20 approach.

In short, with the PCB looking to revamp its T20 strategy ahead of next year’s ICC tournaments, Shadab Khan’s return as captain appears imminent, marking yet another leadership change in Pakistan’s ever-evolving cricket landscape.