Babar Azam is reportedly the frontrunner to become Pakistan’s T20I captain again, taking over from Salman Ali Agha, according to reports. No announcement has been made.
PCB review
The Pakistan Cricket Board is said to be assessing the side’s recent T20 international results as part of a wider look at its leadership structure. Babar has apparently emerged as the leading candidate to resume the role.
He has led Pakistan in all three formats before and did well in T20 cricket. Under him, Pakistan reached the semi-finals of the 2021 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup and then finished runners-up at the 2022 edition in Australia. His long experience as captain and his consistent batting are believed to be big factors behind the reported plan.
Salman Ali Agha’s position
Salman, who took over during a period of transition for Pakistan cricket, is unlikely to be dropped. Reports suggest he will remain an important senior all-rounder, and that any change would aim to strengthen the leadership group for future ICC events rather than reflect on his own performances.
Two formats
Babar was recently reinstated as Test captain for the forthcoming tours of the West Indies and England. If he is also named T20I captain, he would again lead Pakistan in two formats.
The PCB is expected to name its next T20I squad once internal talks are finished. Until then, the captaincy remains unsettled and official confirmation is still awaited.
