The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is once again at the center of big changes as it considers a captaincy reshuffle in both the ODI and Test formats. Sources suggest that Salman Ali Agha may replace Mohammad Rizwan as the ODI captain, while Saud Shakeel could step in for Shan Masood in Test matches. With these potential changes, the PCB is signaling a fresh direction for Pakistan cricket ahead of the T20 World Cup 2026 and other upcoming tours.
Agha Salman Likely to Lead Pakistan in ODIs
Before the Pakistan cricket team departed for Dubai, discussions within the PCB think tank indicated a major shift. The selection committee has reportedly shown satisfaction with Salman Ali Agha’s performance and leadership potential, recommending him as the new ODI captain. The committee believes he can provide stability and fresh energy as Pakistan builds toward the next ODI cycle.
If confirmed, Salman Ali Agha’s tenure as captain is expected to last at least until the 2026 T20 World Cup. This move would also align with the selection committee’s long-term strategy of grooming consistent performers into leadership roles.
Saud Shakeel’s Rise in Test Cricket
The Test format may also see a shake-up. Current Test captain Shan Masood has slipped from Category B to the lowest Category D in the central contract, which makes his position extremely vulnerable. In contrast, Saud Shakeel has been steadily proving his worth in red-ball cricket, especially through his performances with Pakistan Shaheens.
Insiders reveal that the Pakistan Cricket Board and selectors are convinced of Saud Shakeel’s temperament and ability to handle the pressures of Test cricket. As a result, he is set to be elevated to Category A in the central contract and announced as the new Test captain following the Asia Cup.
PCB’s Decision-Making Process
According to the PCB constitution, the authority to appoint captains lies with Chairman Mohsin Naqvi. However, Naqvi has publicly stated that he does not interfere in cricketing matters. Instead, decision-making has been delegated to head coach Mike Hesson, the selection committee, and two key advisors.
Naqvi emphasized his trust in the committee, saying that team selection and captaincy appointments are strictly performance-based. “Whoever performs well will get his reward and whoever does not will get nothing,” he told reporters. He also urged fans and the media not to criticize players without reason, noting that unnecessary negativity often affects performance.
The Role of Central Contracts
The demotion of Shan Masood and the exclusion of Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan from the Asia Cup central contract have sparked debate about the PCB’s new approach. Central contracts are now being used not only to reward players but also to indicate long-term leadership plans.
By offering Salman Ali Agha and Saud Shakeel positions in Category A, the Pakistan Cricket Board is signaling its intent to back them as future leaders. These changes will officially take effect after the Asia Cup, once the selection committee makes its announcements.
Upcoming Challenges for New Captains
If the changes are confirmed, Salman Ali Agha and Saud Shakeel will face tough challenges. The South Africa Test series in October will be Saud Shakeel’s first major test as captain, where he must prove both his leadership and batting consistency. Similarly, Agha Salman will carry the burden of reviving Pakistan’s ODI team, which has struggled with stability in recent years.
Both players will need strong support from senior cricketers and the coaching staff as they settle into their new roles. The decisions also highlight the PCB’s long-term vision of grooming younger leaders instead of relying solely on established names like Babar Azam and Rizwan.
Fans’ Reactions and Expectations
The news of possible captaincy changes has divided fans. Some welcome the move, believing that fresh leadership is necessary to rejuvenate Pakistan cricket. Others argue that removing Rizwan and Masood could create instability ahead of important tournaments.
Nevertheless, the Pakistan Cricket Board appears determined to back its new choices, regardless of criticism. As Mohsin Naqvi pointed out, performance will remain the ultimate benchmark. If the new captains deliver results, their leadership will be strengthened; if not, the PCB will not hesitate to make further adjustments.
The upcoming Asia Cup and the October Test series against South Africa will be crucial in shaping the future of Pakistan cricket. With Salman Ali Agha likely to lead in ODIs and Saud Shakeel in Tests, the Pakistan Cricket Board is signaling a bold shift in its leadership strategy. Whether these decisions will bring stability and success remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: Pakistan cricket is entering a new era where fresh faces are being trusted with the biggest responsibilities.
