Lahore: Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has announced its squads for the ODI and T20 series against New Zealand. Pakistan cricket team’s head coach, Aaqib Javed, announced several changes in the squad during a press conference. Mohammad Rizwan has been removed as the captain of the T20 team, and Salman Ali Agha has been appointed as the new captain, with Shadab Khan as vice-captain. However, Rizwan will continue as the ODI captain.
During a press conference in Lahore alongside Salman Ali Agha, interim head coach Aaqib Javed revealed the squads for Pakistan’s tour of New Zealand.
Pakistan’s T20 Squad for the New Zealand Tour:
Salman Ali Agha (Captain), Shadab Khan (Vice-Captain), Abdul Samad, Abrar Ahmed, Haris Rauf, Jahandad Khan, Hassan Nawaz, Khushdil Shah, Mohammad Abbas Afridi, Mohammad Ali, Mohammad Haris, Mohammad Irfan Khan, Omair Bin Yousuf, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Sufiyan Muqeem, Usman Khan (Wicketkeeper).
Pakistan’s ODI Squad for the New Zealand Tour:
Mohammad Rizwan (Captain), Salman Ali Agha (Vice-Captain), Abdullah Shafique, Abrar Ahmed, Aqif Javed, Babar Azam, Faheem Ashraf, Imam-ul-Haq, Irfan Khan Niazi, Khushdil Shah, Mohammad Ali, Mohammad Wasim Jr., Naseem Shah, Sufiyan Muqeem, Tayyab Tahir.
Aaqib Javed stated that Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan have been excluded from the T20 squad, while Shaheen Afridi and Haris Rauf have been dropped from the ODI squad. Opener Fakhar Zaman and Saim Ayub were not considered for selection in either format due to medical advice.
During the press conference, Aaqib Javed mentioned that the team is looking to take a new direction in T20 cricket, which is why a new captain has been chosen. He emphasized that Pakistan aims to build a strong team for upcoming events. He also acknowledged challenges such as a shortage of all-rounders and Shadab Khan’s recent struggles due to injuries, but expressed confidence in his improved performance.
Taking responsibility for Pakistan’s poor performance in the Champions Trophy, Aaqib Javed admitted his accountability as head coach. He stated that he is still serving as an interim coach and is ready to take necessary steps if required. He emphasized the need for continuity from the chairman to the coaching staff, which would help maintain consistency in team performance.
Aaqib Javed affirmed that Shaheen Afridi remains a quality T20 bowler and could still be part of future T20 matches. He also stressed the importance of supporting players in the lead-up to the World Cup rather than making frequent changes after every defeat.
He further stated that no squad is final, and changes could be made. Players like Saim Ayub and Fakhar Zaman might return once they regain fitness. He urged fans, cricket experts, and former players to be patient, as long-term improvements take time.
Newly appointed T20 captain Salman Ali Agha expressed his honor in leading the team and acknowledged the challenge ahead. He highlighted the importance of bringing young players into the squad, particularly those excelling in domestic T20 cricket, to prepare them for the international stage.
