In a significant move following the recent Champions Trophy performance, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has announced the squads for the upcoming tour of New Zealand. The tour includes a five-match T20I series and three One-Day International (ODI) matches, set to commence on March 16 and conclude on April 5.
New T20I captain for Pakistan
The PCB has named Salman Ali Agha as the new captain for the T20I series, marking a significant shift in leadership. Shadab Khan, an experienced all-rounder, has been appointed as the vice-captain for the T20I series. This decision comes as part of an overhaul aimed at revitalizing the team’s performance in the shortest format of the game.
Details of the T20I squad
The T20I squad includes several new faces, reflecting the PCB’s strategy to give opportunities to young and domestic performers.
The squad comprises: Salman Ali Agha (c), Shadab Khan (vc), Abdul Samad, Abrar Ahmed, Haris Rauf, Hasan Nawaz, Jahandad Khan, Khushdil Shah, Mohammad Abbas Afridi, Mohammad Ali, Mohammad Haris, Muhammad Irfan Khan, Omair Bin Yousaf, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Sufyan Moqim, Usman Khan
ODI squad and captaincy
In contrast to the T20I setup, Mohammad Rizwan will continue to lead the team in the ODI format. The ODI squad is expected to undergo slight changes, with a focus on maintaining a balance between experience and youth.
The 50-overs squad includes: Mohammad Rizwan (captain), Salman Ali Agha (vice-captain), Abdullah Shafique, Abrar Ahmed, Akif Javed, Babar Azam, Faheem Ashraf, Imam-ul-Haq, Khushdil Shah, Mohammad Ali, Mohammad Wasim Jnr, Muhammad Irfan Khan, Naseem Shah, Sufyan Moqim, Tayyab Tahir.
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The announcement comes after Pakistan’s disappointing performance in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, prompting a reevaluation of the team’s strategy and leadership. The tour of New Zealand presents an opportunity for Pakistan to regroup and showcase their capabilities in both formats. With new leadership and a mix of seasoned players and fresh talent, fans are eager to see how the team performs against a strong New Zealand side.
