Agha Salman set to be removed as Pakistan captain after shambolic Asia Cup 2025; Shadab Khan to replace

Published - 16 Oct 2025, 17:03 IST | Updated - 16 Oct 2025, 17:17 IST

In a surprising development, veteran all-rounder Shadab Khan is likely to replace Agha Salman as Pakistan’s T20I captain. Shadab, who missed the Asia Cup 2025 due to a shoulder injury, is steadily recovering and may make his T20I return during the tri-series against Afghanistan and Sri Lanka in November.

Shadab was one of the most notable absentees from Pakistan’s Asia Cup squad. However, reports suggest that the experienced cricketer is set to take over the captaincy from Salman in T20Is once he is fit. Currently serving as Pakistan’s vice-captain, Shadab was sidelined during the Asia Cup, and the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) had not named a formal successor.

Salman, meanwhile, led Pakistan to 17 wins in 30 T20Is, but his recent form has dipped significantly. The right-handed batter was one of Pakistan’s major disappointments in the Asia Cup, scoring only 72 runs at an average of 12 and a strike rate of 80.89. Compounding the situation, the Men in Green lost all three matches against the Indian team, including the finale loss, further putting his captaincy under scrutiny.

Salman’s struggles also contributed to Pakistan’s underwhelming middle-order performance. According to a Jansatta report, Shadab, as a genuine all-rounder, could be directly slotted into Salman’s position in the batting line-up. While Salman bowled sparingly in the Asia Cup, Shadab’s leg-spin can strengthen the team balance and add immense value.

In 112 T20Is, Shadab has scored 792 runs at a strike rate of 140.2, alongside 112 wickets. He is also among the highest wicket-takers for the Men in Green in the shortest format of the game. Beyond his international exploits, he has showcased strong leadership skills for Islamabad United, guiding them to a Pakistan Super League (PSL) title.

If appointed as Pakistan’s T20I captain, Shadab could address multiple issues for the Men in Green, from bolstering the middle-order to enhancing bowling options, while also bringing his proven leadership experience to the fore. This move could prove pivotal as Pakistan looks to fine-tune its squad ahead of next year’s T20 World Cup.