Pakistan's cricket authorities are reportedly considering removing Salman Ali Agha from his position as T20I captain following the team's repeated defeats against India in the recent Asia Cup. According to reports, all-rounder Shadab Khan is the likely candidate to replace him as captain.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is supposedly viewing this as a strategic reset in preparation for the 2026 T20 World Cup, which is scheduled to be held in India and Sri Lanka. The decision to potentially replace Agha comes after Pakistan's three consecutive losses to India during the Asia Cup 2025. These defeats included a Group A match on September 14, a Super Fours encounter on September 21, and the final on September 28.
The Asia Cup final was particularly damaging for Pakistan. After a promising start, reaching 113 for one, the team collapsed, losing nine wickets for just 33 runs and ultimately being bowled out for 146. Kuldeep Yadav, the Indian left-arm wrist spinner, played a crucial role in this collapse, taking 4 wickets for 30 runs. Although India's chase was tense, Tilak Varma led his team to victory by two wickets with a score of 69 runs, securing India's ninth Asia Cup title.
Agha Salman's performance in the Asia Cup was subpar, with only 72 runs scored in seven matches at a strike rate of 80.90 and an average of 12. His captaincy decisions also drew criticism during the tournament. The successive losses to India have intensified the pressure for a change in leadership.
Shadab Khan, the likely replacement, has extensive experience in international cricket, having represented Pakistan in 112 T20Is. He has also served as the team's vice-captain. Furthermore, he has held leadership positions in various cricket leagues worldwide. However, Shadab is currently recovering from shoulder surgery in England and is expected to return to the team next month. He last played for Pakistan in June in a home series against Bangladesh.
Shadab's potential return to action could be in a home series against Sri Lanka between November 11 and 15. A source indicated that Shadab plans to participate in a four-day game in the Quaid-e-Azam Trophy before the Sri Lanka series.
Some former players have also voiced their opinions on the matter. Wasim Akram and Waqar Younis reportedly criticized Salman Ali Agha's performance and urged decision-makers to reconsider his place in the squad.
