3 players who can replace Babar Azam as Pakistan's T20I skipper - Cricket Winner

Pakistan have been eliminated from the T20 World Cup 2024 after inclement weather in Lauderhill meant points were split between Ireland and USA. USA have qualified for the Super Eight alongside India from Group A, also sealing their berth in the 2026 T20 World Cup.

Under-fire Babar Azam’s future as the captain of Pakistan’s white-ball teams remains uncertain. In the wake of their early exit, Babar has come under pressure despite having just reassumed captaincy, but he said he was going to make any call only after meeting and reviewing the World Cup with the decision-makers at the PCB.

If Babar Azam is sacked or decides to step down as captain for the second time, the big question arises: who will lead Pakistan’s T20I team? Here’s a detailed look at three players who could potentially take over the reins.

3 potential candidates for captaincy

When considering a new captain, several factors come into play: leadership skills, cricketing acumen, experience, and the ability to inspire the team. Three players stand out as potential candidates to replace Babar Azam: Mohammad Rizwan, Shaheen Afridi, and Shadab Khan.

1. Mohammad Rizwan

Mohammad Rizwan has emerged as one of Pakistan’s most reliable batter in recent years. Known for his consistency and resilience, Rizwan has been a vital part of the team’s success in T20Is.

Rizwan has a commendable captaincy record in the Pakistan Super League (PSL). Leading the Multan Sultans, he has a win rate of 66.66%, significantly higher than Babar Azam’s 36.36%. Under his leadership, the Sultans reached three consecutive PSL finals in 2022, 2023, and 2024, although they fell short of winning the title.

2. Shaheen Afridi

Shaheen Afridi, a young and dynamic fast bowler, has made a significant impact in international cricket. Known for his aggressive bowling and charismatic presence, Afridi is a key player for Pakistan.

Afridi was appointed as the T20I captain after Babar stepped down. However, his tenure was short-lived, marked by a series defeat against New Zealand. Despite this setback, his leadership in PSL, where he led Lahore Qalandars to back-to-back titles, showcases his potential as a captain. In the Pakistan Super League (PSL), he has a win percentage of 52.94% with 18 wins and 15 losses in 34 matches.

3. Shadab Khan

Shadab Khan, an all-rounder, has been a crucial part of Pakistan’s T20I setup. His ability to contribute with both bat and ball makes him a valuable asset.

Shadab has led Islamabad United to victory in the 2024 PSL, boasting a win rate of 56.36%. His leadership qualities and ability to perform under pressure have made him a strong candidate for the national captaincy.