Shadab Khan, an experienced all-rounder, is expected to take Agha Salman‘s place as Pakistan’s T20I captain in an unexpected move. Shadab is gradually getting better after missing the Asia Cup 2025 because of a shoulder injury, and he might play in the November tri-series against Afghanistan and Sri Lanka.
One of the most noticeable absences from Pakistan’s Asia Cup team was Shadab. But according to speculations, once he is healthy, the seasoned cricketer would replace Agha Salman as captain of the T20Is. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has not yet named a replacement for Shadab, who is currently Pakistan’s vice-captain who was injured during the Asia Cup.
In contrast, Agha Salman guided Pakistan to 17 victories in 30 Twenty20 Internationals, but his recent play has drastically declined. One of Pakistan’s biggest letdowns at the Asia Cup was the right-handed batsman, who managed just 72 runs at a strike rate of 80.89 and an average of 12. Further undermining his captaincy was the fact that the Men in Green lost all three of their games against the Indian team, including the final defeat.
The poor middle-order performance of Pakistan was also influenced by Agha Salman difficulties.
A Jansatta report claims that Shadab, being a true all-rounder, might be placed right into Salman’s place in the batting lineup. In contrast to Salman’s limited bowling at the Asia Cup, Shadab’s leg-spin can greatly improve the team’s balance.
Shadab Khan’s record in T20I
Shadab has amassed 792 runs at a strike rate of 140.2 and claimed 112 wickets in 112 Twenty20 Internationals. He is also one of the Men in Green’s top wicket-takers in the game’s shortest format. He has led Islamabad United to a Pakistan Super League (PSL) championship, demonstrating his great leadership abilities in addition to his international successes.
If chosen to lead Pakistan in the Twenty20 Internationals, Shadab might help the Men in Green with a variety of problems, such as improving bowling options and strengthening the middle order. This decision might be crucial as Pakistan tries to hone its team in preparation for the T20 World Cup the following year.
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