Pakistan’s cricket team undergoes major changes ahead of the T20I series in New Zealand. Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan have been dropped, with Salman Ali Agha stepping in as captain. The reshuffle follows a poor showing in the Champions Trophy and aims to prepare for the ACC Men’s T20 Asia Cup 2025 and ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026. Several new players join the squads, focusing on rebuilding and revitalization.
In a significant shift within Pakistan’s cricket team, premier batter Babar Azam and captain Mohammad Rizwan have been dropped from the T20I squad for the upcoming series in New Zealand. Salman Ali Agha has been appointed as the new captain for the T20 format, supported by Shadab Khan as the vice-captain. Rizwan will still lead the team in ODIs, while notable veterans Shaheen Shah Afridi and Haris Rauf have also been sidelined.
This reshuffle follows Pakistan’s disappointing performance in the Champions Trophy, where they failed to defend their title, exiting early in the group stages. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has emphasized that these changes aim to better prepare the team for crucial upcoming tournaments, including the ACC Men’s T20 Asia Cup 2025 and the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026.
Salman Ali Agha previously captained the Men in Green during a T20I series against Zimbabwe last year, which Pakistan won. The T20I squad has seen several new entries, including Abdul Samad, Hasan Nawaz, and Mohammad Ali, while Akif Javed and Muhammad Ali join the ODI setup. High-profile players Fakhar Zaman and Saim Ayub are absent due to medical issues, with both expected to return for the Pakistan Super League.
Aqib Javed remains as interim head coach for the New Zealand series, extending his original contract as a new head coach search begins. Additionally, Mohammad Yousuf joins the team as batting coach. The T20I series against New Zealand is scheduled from March 16 to 26, followed by three ODIs starting March 29.
The T20I and ODI squads comprise a mix of established and new players, with a goal of reinvigorating the teams. The T20I squad includes Salman Ali Agha, Shadab Khan, and others, while the ODI team features Rizwan, Agha, Babar Azam, and others, highlighting a blend of experience and fresh talent that aims to restore Pakistan’s cricketing prowess in international competitions.
The reshaping of Pakistan’s cricket squad reflects a strategic response to recent failings, aiming for better outcomes in future competitions. With new appointments and a focus on upcoming tournaments, the PCB positions the team for potential future success. The inclusion of emerging players alongside experienced veterans signals an attempt to strike a balance between fresh talent and proven capability.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
