Salman Agha poised to become Pakistan’s all-format captain

LAHORE: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is set to appoint Salman Ali Agha as captain across all formats.

The 31-year-old has reportedly won the confidence of white-ball head coach Mike Hesson, the selection committee, and PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi, particularly after Pakistan’s 3-0 T20I series sweep against Bangladesh.

Known for his strategic clarity and composure, Salman is now being viewed as the ideal figure to lead the national team into its next competitive cycle. This proposed appointment signals the end of the road for current ODI captain Mohammad Rizwan and Test skipper Shan Masood.

Rizwan’s captaincy came under scrutiny following Pakistan’s early Champions Trophy exit and a muted performance during the New Zealand tour. Meanwhile, Masood’s Test leadership has faced mounting criticism after a dismal record—nine losses in twelve Tests—leaving Pakistan bottom of the World Test Championship table.

Salman’s potential elevation comes ahead of a packed calendar, which includes a T20I series in Bangladesh in July, followed by home engagements against the West Indies in August and a pivotal Test series against South Africa in October. With WTC matches also scheduled against Sri Lanka, New Zealand, Bangladesh, and England, the new leadership will be tested across formats and conditions.

If confirmed, Salman Ali Agha’s appointment would mark a bold new chapter for Pakistan cricket, signaling a shift toward unified leadership and strategic continuity. Let me know if you’d like a profile piece on Salman’s rise or a deeper look at how this decision could reshape team dynamics. I’m ready when you are.