The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has announced Mohammad Rizwan as the new captain for Pakistan’s white-ball cricket, marking a significant shift in leadership. Rizwan, known for his calm behavior and dedication, made it clear that he aims to serve the team rather than assume the title of a “king” as a captain.
During a media interaction after his appointment, Rizwan said, “If I start seeing myself as a king, everything will collapse. A leader must serve the 15 players in the squad, not the other way around.” This statement is being viewed as a subtle dig at Babar Azam, who was often called the “King of Pakistan cricket.”
Babar Azam’s Transition and Squad Changes
Babar Azam, along with Shaheen Afridi and Naseem Shah, returns to Pakistan’s Test squad for the Australia tour, but the three have not been selected for the ODI and T20 series in Zimbabwe. This development reflects a strategic reshuffle, with the team trying new combinations for upcoming challenges.
Despite stepping down from captaincy, Babar retains his Category A contract, while Shaheen Afridi has been downgraded to Category B. Fakhar Zaman, a long-time supporter of Babar, has lost his central contract and has not been selected for any squad, following tension with the board. PCB reportedly issued him a show-cause notice earlier after he expressed support for Babar on social media.
Squad for Australia and Zimbabwe Tours
The Pakistan cricket team’s tour of Australia will run from November 4 to 18, followed by a series in Zimbabwe from November 24 to December 5. Mohammad Rizwan, who will captain the side against Australia, will rest during the T20 leg of the Zimbabwe tour but will return for the ODIs.
Key Inclusions for the Australia Series:
- Babar Azam, Naseem Shah, Shaheen Afridi
- Haris Rauf, Arafat Minhas, Irfan Khan, Salman Ali Agha
- Fast bowler Mohammad Hasnain returns to the ODI team after impressive performances in domestic cricket.
New Faces for Zimbabwe Series:
- Jahandad Khan, included in the T20 squad for the first time
- Mohammad Abbas Afridi, Sahibzada Farhan, Abrar Ahmed
Pakistan’s white-ball coach Gary Kirsten will join the team on October 28 in Melbourne.
Leadership Transition and Challenges Ahead
The shift in captaincy marks a new chapter for Pakistan cricket. Rizwan has emphasized teamwork and discipline, distancing himself from the leadership style associated with Babar Azam. His focus is on creating a team culture that promotes hard work and unity.
Meanwhile, domestic performers like Aamir Jamal, Abrar Ahmed, and Sam Ayub have been rewarded with places in the squads, highlighting PCB’s emphasis on form and fitness.
As Pakistan prepares to face Australia and Zimbabwe, the spotlight will remain on Rizwan’s leadership style and how it shapes the future of the team. With a blend of experienced players and emerging talent, Rizwan’s challenge will be to build a cohesive unit capable of delivering strong performances on international tours.
