Pakistan’s cricket team undergoes a major reshuffle, with Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan removed from the T20I squad for the upcoming series in New Zealand. Salman Ali Agha has been named T20I captain, alongside Shadab Khan as vice-captain. The Pakistan Cricket Board aims to revitalize the team in preparation for future international competitions.
In a significant shift within Pakistan’s cricket management, premier batter Babar Azam and captain Mohammad Rizwan have been excluded from the T20I squad for the upcoming series in New Zealand. Salman Ali Agha has been appointed as the new T20I captain, with Shadab Khan serving as his deputy.
Despite his exclusion from T20Is, Rizwan will continue his leadership in One Day Internationals (ODIs). Notably, leading fast bowlers Shaheen Shah Afridi and Haris Rauf have also been dropped from the ODI roster amid this major overhaul, which follows Pakistan’s disappointing performance in the ongoing Champions Trophy.
The alterations reflect the Pakistan Cricket Board’s strategic focus on preparing for future tournaments, including the ACC Men’s T20 Asia Cup 2025 and the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026. Agha had previously led the team to a T20I series victory over Zimbabwe in 2022.
New entrants to Pakistan’s T20I squad include Abdul Samad, Hasan Nawaz, and Mohammad Ali, while Akif Javed and Mohammad Ali are new additions to the ODI team. Additionally, Fakhar Zaman and Saim Ayub have been omitted due to medical advice; both players are recovering from injuries incurred during recent matches.
Aqib Javed will remain as the interim head coach for the New Zealand tour, with his tenure extended as the search for a permanent coach begins. Former cricketer Mohammad Yousuf joins the management as the batting coach.
The series, consisting of five T20Is, is scheduled to occur from March 16 to March 26, followed by three ODIs beginning March 29. The T20I squad features a blend of experience and fresh talent, indicating a strategic reshuffle designed to enhance team performance moving forward.
The reshaping of Pakistan’s cricket squad signals a proactive approach to enhancing performance ahead of significant international tournaments. The inclusion of new players alongside a change in leadership reflects a commitment to rebuilding and evolving the team’s structure. By addressing areas of concern following the Champions Trophy, the Pakistan Cricket Board aims to foster a more competitive team for the future.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
