Lahore — With the next T20 World Cup on the horizon, Pakistan’s cricket selectors are reportedly considering replacing current T20 captain Salman Ali Agha following a series of disappointing performances, including his underwhelming show in the Asia Cup. Discussions are also underway regarding the possible return of senior players to the national squad ahead of the upcoming white-ball series against South Africa.
According to sources within the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), the selectors are re-evaluating leadership options after Salman Ali Agha’s poor form and ineffective captaincy during the Asia Cup drew widespread criticism. The 30-year-old middle-order batter managed to score only 72 runs in seven innings, averaging 12 with a strike rate of 80, raising concerns about his ability to lead a competitive side in the high-intensity T20 format.
Critics have pointed to Salman’s inability to anchor the innings in crucial situations and his questionable tactical decisions on the field, particularly in matches where Pakistan failed to defend modest totals. Insiders suggest that PCB officials are exploring multiple options for captaincy, including the reinstatement of an experienced player who can stabilize both the team’s batting lineup and dressing-room dynamics.
The debate over leadership change comes as Pakistan prepares for a challenging home series against South Africa, which includes three T20 Internationals and three One-Day Internationals, beginning October 28 in Rawalpindi. The T20 leg of the tour will follow a two-match Test series between the sides.
Sources confirm that the selection committee has started consultations regarding squad composition for both limited-overs formats. Several changes are expected in the upcoming announcement, with two to three alterations likely in the T20 and ODI squads. Among these, the return of senior players — possibly including former captains and experienced all-rounders — is being actively considered to strengthen the team’s core ahead of the World Cup.
“The selectors want a balanced mix of experience and youth. While Salman Ali Agha’s leadership has been appreciated in patches, his batting form and decision-making under pressure have raised genuine concerns,” a source close to the PCB selection panel revealed.
Names such as Shadab Khan, Babar Azam, and Shaheen Afridi are reportedly being discussed as potential leadership alternatives, depending on the team’s strategic direction. However, PCB officials have not made any official statement regarding the captaincy issue, indicating that final decisions will be made after the South Africa series.
Analysts believe that Pakistan’s T20 squad needs immediate adjustments, particularly in its middle order and pace attack, to regain consistency ahead of the 2026 ICC T20 World Cup. The inclusion of senior players could help stabilize the side and guide younger talents such as Saim Ayub, Abrar Ahmed, and Azam Khan, who have shown promise but struggled with consistency.
The upcoming South Africa series is expected to serve as a testing ground for several fringe players as well as a decisive factor in determining Salman Ali Agha’s future as captain. A strong performance could save his position, while another disappointing series may pave the way for a leadership reshuffle and a broader team overhaul.
With mounting pressure from fans and former cricketers calling for accountability, the PCB’s next move will likely shape Pakistan’s T20 strategy heading into one of the most crucial years in its international cricket calendar.
