Lahore, 4 March 2025: Salman Ali Agha has been appointed Pakistan’s T20I captain for the five-match series against New Zealand, with Shadab Khan as his deputy. The series runs from 16-26 March. This decision aligns with Pakistan’s preparation for the ACC Men’s T20 Asia Cup 2025 and the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026. Salman previously led Pakistan to a 2-1 series win against Zimbabwe.
Mohammad Rizwan Retains ODI Captaincy
Mohammad Rizwan will continue as ODI captain, supported by Salman Ali Agha as vice-captain. The three-match ODI series is scheduled from 29 March to 5 April. Rizwan’s leadership is crucial as Pakistan builds towards the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2027, set to be held in Namibia, South Africa, and Zimbabwe.
T20I Squad Features New Faces
The T20I squad includes three uncapped players: Abdul Samad, Hasan Nawaz, and Mohammad Ali. These selections follow their standout performances in domestic tournaments. Samad and Nawaz impressed with the bat, while Ali emerged as the leading wicket-taker in the Champions T20 Cup. Their inclusion reflects Pakistan’s focus on nurturing young talent for future global tournaments.
T20I Squad
| Player | Role |
|---|---|
| Salman Ali Agha (C) | All-rounder |
| Shadab Khan (VC) | All-rounder |
| Abdul Samad | Batter |
| Abrar Ahmed | Bowler |
| Haris Rauf | Bowler |
| Hasan Nawaz | Batter |
| Jahandad Khan | All-rounder |
| Khushdil Shah | All-rounder |
| Mohammad Abbas Afridi | Bowler |
| Mohammad Ali | Bowler |
| Mohammad Haris | Wicketkeeper/Batter |
| Muhammad Irfan Khan | All-rounder |
| Omair Bin Yousaf | Batter |
| Shaheen Shah Afridi | Bowler |
| Sufyan Moqim | Batter |
| Usman Khan | Batter |
ODI Squad Bolstered by Emerging Talent
The ODI squad also introduces fresh faces, with Akif Javed and Mohammad Ali earning their maiden call-ups. Akif’s consistent performances in domestic cricket, including 15 wickets in the Champions T20 Cup, earned him a spot. The squad will add a wicketkeeper/batter after the T20I series, ensuring depth and flexibility for the 50-over matches.
ODI Squad
| Player | Role |
|---|---|
| Mohammad Rizwan (C) | Wicketkeeper/Batter |
| Salman Ali Agha (VC) | All-rounder |
| Abdullah Shafique | Batter |
| Abrar Ahmed | Bowler |
| Akif Javed | Bowler |
| Babar Azam | Batter |
| Faheem Ashraf | All-rounder |
| Imam-ul-Haq | Batter |
| Khushdil Shah | All-rounder |
| Mohammad Ali | Bowler |
| Mohammad Wasim Jnr | All-rounder |
| Muhammad Irfan Khan | All-rounder |
| Naseem Shah | Bowler |
| Sufyan Moqim | Batter |
| Tayyab Tahir | Batter |
Fakhar Zaman and Saim Ayub Miss Out
Openers Fakhar Zaman and Saim Ayub were excluded due to injuries. Fakhar sustained a left lower intercostal muscle sprain during the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, while Saim is recovering from a right ankle fracture. Both are expected to return for the HBL Pakistan Super League 10, starting in April 2025.
Also Read: Free Iftar Boxes to be Given During Champions Trophy Semi-Final in Lahore
Aqib Javed Continues as Interim Head Coach
Aqib Javed will remain interim head coach for the New Zealand tour, extending his tenure beyond the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. The Pakistan Cricket Board is yet to appoint a permanent head coach. Mohammad Yousuf joins as batting coach, adding experience to the support staff.
New Zealand Tour Schedule
The tour begins with the T20I series, starting on 16 March in Christchurch. The five T20Is will be followed by three ODIs, concluding on 5 April in Mount Maunganui. The series provides Pakistan an opportunity to test their strategies and combinations ahead of major tournaments.
Focus on Future Tournaments
Pakistan’s squad selections and leadership appointments reflect a long-term vision. With the T20 World Cup 2026 and ODI World Cup 2027 on the horizon, the New Zealand tour serves as a critical step in building a competitive and cohesive unit. The inclusion of young talent underscores Pakistan’s commitment to developing a robust pipeline for future success.
