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Pakistan cricket has been rocked by a wave of controversies and bold decisions in recent days. The selectors shocked many by leaving out seasoned campaigners Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan, despite the team’s defeat in the recent three-match T20I series against Bangladesh.
Selection shocks and rumours surrounding Pakistan cricket
The announcement drew immediate reactions, especially since both batters were considered pillars of Pakistan’s white-ball cricket. Head coach Mike Hesson and chief selector Aqib Javed explained that the duo had been asked to work on their game, particularly to improve their strike rates in T20 cricket. With this move, the selectors signaled a shift towards a more aggressive batting approach in the shortest format. Salman Ali Agha has been entrusted with the captaincy for the upcoming Asia Cup, starting on September 9.
Pakistan has been placed in Group A alongside India, Oman and the United Arab Emirates, which ensures some exciting contests. The PCB, however, faced further scrutiny when rumours regarding potential captaincy changes across formats surfaced on social media, forcing the board to issue a clarification. Against this backdrop, Pakistan’s busy schedule includes the Tri-Nation Series in Sharjah, followed by their Asia Cup campaign.
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PCB’s strong reaction on captaincy rumours: Mohammad Rizwan or Salman Ali Agha?
Amid the noise surrounding selections, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) found itself compelled to address another wave of speculation. Reports circulated on social media claiming Rizwan’s ODI captaincy was in danger and that Masood could be replaced as Test captain, with names like Saud Shakeel and Salman Agha floated as potential successors.
On Monday, As per Cricket Pakistan report, PCB issued a categorical denial, branding these claims baseless and misleading. According to board sources, no discussions were held regarding any changes in leadership roles, nor has the selection committee considered such proposals. Furthermore, the board clarified that no player’s central contract category has been altered, rejecting rumours of downgrades or reshuffles. PCB stressed that Rizwan will continue to lead the ODI side, while Masood remains firmly in charge of the Test team.
The clarification comes at a crucial time as Pakistan prepares for a packed schedule, starting with the Tri-Nation Series in Sharjah featuring Afghanistan and UAE. The men in green open their campaign against Afghanistan on August 29, with each team playing the others twice before the final on September 7. Once the series concludes, Pakistan will shift its attention to the Asia Cup, beginning on September 9 with the opening game between Afghanistan and Hong Kong.
Eight teams will contest the tournament, divided into two groups of four. Pakistan, placed in Group A, will play their first match against Oman on September 12, followed by the marquee clash against India on September 14, and then face UAE on September 17. Group B comprises Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Afghanistan and Hong Kong, ensuring strong competition across both pools. By issuing this clarification, PCB has attempted to put an end to uncertainty around leadership roles, allowing the team to focus solely on cricket. The board’s stance highlights a desire to maintain stability, especially with two major tournaments lined up within a short span. Ultimately, Pakistan’s performances on the field will determine whether these decisions bring the desired results.
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