Salman Ali Agha poised to become Pakistan’s next all-format skipper
Pakistan Cricket Board is set to appoint Salman Ali Agha as the new all-format captain, replacing Shan Masood and Mohammad Rizwan. The PCB also plans major structural changes, including an observatory committee and revamped selection process, aiming for a fresh start ahead of the 2025 Test series against South Africa.

As part of a big leadership shake-up, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is said to announce Salman Ali Agha as the country's all-format national team skipper, replacing Shan Masood in Tests and Mohammad Rizwan in ODIs. The formal announcement should be made after Eid holidays.
Salman, who is now Pakistan's T20I captain, has impressed officials and selectors with his captaincy as well as consistency with the bat. His promotion indicates the PCB's willingness to move towards a new era under the influence of young energy and new tactics. Sources suggest that the decision has the backing of PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi, newly appointed white-ball coach Mike Hesson, and the selection committee. Together, they believe Salman is best positioned to unify the team across formats and lead with renewed direction.
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Shan Masood's captaincy stint in Tests has been disappointing, with only three victories in 12 matches, including a historic series defeat to Bangladesh. Rizwan, who leads the ODI side currently, has also been said to be dissatisfied with not having a say in matters of selection under the old regime. The PCB seems to be set to clear the decks and begin afresh.
In addition to the captaincy shift, the PCB is also set to unveil the creation of an "observatory committee" that will monitor team developments and provide advice to the chairman. Sarfaraz Ahmed and Sikander Bakht, both former cricketers, are on the list of contenders for this panel, with more names to be added. Also under consideration is a reorganization of the national selection committee, with greater emphasis being placed on scouting talent from domestic and age-group circuits. Naqvi is also said to favour giving the captain and coach more leeway in matters related to team selection.
Pakistan's next Test assignment will be a two-match home series against South Africa later in the year, launching their ICC World Test Championship campaign. With only five Tests planned for 2025, Salman will have few chances to leave an early impression as a red-ball captain. If handed the role, Salman Ali Agha's ascent will be one of the quickest in Pakistan cricket, representing a new bold direction for the national side.
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