Lahore, August 24, 2025: The Pakistan cricket team is bracing for major leadership changes in both the ODI and Test formats, with consultations underway at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Lahore, sources revealed on Sunday.
According to insiders, Salman Ali Agha has emerged as the leading candidate to replace Mohammad Rizwan as Pakistan’s ODI captain. The development reportedly followed discussions between the selection committee, High Performance Center officials, and Salman before the squad’s departure to Dubai. Salman’s adaptability in the middle order and consistent performances are said to have strengthened his case as a long-term option.
In Test cricket, Saud Shakeel is being tipped to succeed Shan Masood as captain. If confirmed, it would mark a significant shift in Pakistan’s leadership strategy, with the board looking to groom younger players for extended responsibility. Saud, who has impressed with his steady form, is also expected to see his central contract upgraded to Category B alongside the role.
An important meeting held at the NCA earlier this week focused on providing stability in captaincy across formats, particularly with several crucial tours ahead. While multiple names are under consideration, sources maintain that Salman Agha and Saud Shakeel are the most likely to be formally announced as new captains in the coming weeks.
