Former Pakistan batsman Ahmed Shehzad has raised serious concerns about Salman Ali Agha’s appointment as Pakistan’s T20I captain, questioning his suitability for the format. Shehzad highlighted Agha’s struggles during the 2025 Asia Cup, where he managed just 72 runs in seven matches at an average of 12 and a strike rate of 80.89. His performance drew criticism as Pakistan lost to India in the final by five wickets. “Salman Ali Agha is a good player, but it is difficult for him to make a place in T20 cricket, yet he has been made the captain,” Shehzad stated during a television appearance. His comments reflect a growing debate within Pakistan cricket circles about whether leadership responsibilities have been placed on a player who has not consistently excelled in the shortest format.
Despite his struggles, Salman Ali Agha continues to be part of Pakistan’s cricket setup across formats, maintaining his place in both the shorter and longer versions of the game. His appointment as T20I captain came following Mohammad Rizwan’s replacement during the tri-series against UAE and Afghanistan and the subsequent Asia Cup, but recent results have raised questions about the decision. Adding to Pakistan cricket’s turmoil, Mohsin Naqvi, who holds dual positions as Chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board and Interior Minister, has come under intense scrutiny. Critics, including Shahid Afridi, have urged Naqvi to relinquish one of his roles, arguing that both positions require dedicated focus. Following Pakistan’s Asia Cup campaign, where India defeated them in all three encounters, concerns over the board’s leadership and vision have intensified. Afridi emphasized the need for competent advisers who understand the game, noting that Naqvi’s current team of advisers has been ineffective. The combined issues of leadership at both the player and administrative levels have sparked widespread debate. Pakistan cricket now faces pressure to reassess its captaincy choices and the board’s management approach as it prepares for upcoming international commitments.
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