The Pakistan cricket team has arrived in Christchurch to commence their T20I series against New Zealand. Salman Agha has been appointed as the T20I captain, while Rizwan continues as captain for the ODIs. This tour follows their poor performance in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, where they did not win any matches. The team aims to rebuild as they prepare for upcoming tournaments.
The Pakistan cricket team has arrived in Christchurch ahead of their T20I series against New Zealand, commencing on March 16. The tour includes five T20I matches and three ODIs over a span of three weeks, marking their first series post the disappointing ICC Champions Trophy 2025, where they suffered defeats against New Zealand and India, and had their match against Bangladesh interrupted by rain.
In this series, Salman Agha has been designated as the T20I captain, supported by vice-captain Shadab Khan. The squad also features three uncapped players: Abdul Samad, Hasan Nawaz, and Mohammad Ali, due to the absence of senior players such as Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan in the T20 format.
Rizwan will maintain his role as captain for the ODIs, with Agha serving as vice-captain during the three 50-over matches scheduled between March 29 and April 5. The Pakistan Cricket Board emphasizes this leadership structure is focused on the forthcoming ACC Men’s T20 Asia Cup 2025 and ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026.
To prepare for the T20 World Cup 2026, Pakistan plans to play at least five T20Is in the ACC Asia Cup 2025 and several additional series against other teams leading up to the tournament. Additionally, Rizwan holds the captaincy for the ODI team, which is building towards the ICC Men’s 50-over Cricket World Cup 2027 in Namibia, South Africa, and Zimbabwe.
During this tour, Aqib Javed continues as the interim head coach, with his initial contract extended as a new head coach is sought. Meanwhile, Mohammad Yousuf has been appointed as the batting coach. The T20I and ODI squads have been announced, featuring a mix of experienced and fresh talent to rebuild the team identity moving forward.
In conclusion, the Pakistan cricket team aims to rebuild and restore its competitive spirit following a disappointing Champions Trophy. With new leadership and a blend of experienced and uncapped players, the focus is on preparation for significant tournaments ahead. The commitment to improving performance in T20 and ODI formats is evident, as the team embarks on a vital tour of New Zealand.
Original Source: sports.ndtv.com
