When Pakistan cricket makes a move, it rarely goes unnoticed — especially when it’s a surprise like this. In a decision that caught fans, players, and even some insiders off guard, Salman Ali Agha was named the T20I captain of Pakistan in April, just ahead of the New Zealand tour.
The appointment raised plenty of eyebrows, not because Salman isn’t capable, but because he wasn’t even in the race publicly. Until suddenly, he was.
So, how did this happen? And why wasn’t the heavily-tipped Shadab Khan, or even the then-skipper Mohammad Rizwan, retained for the role?
Let’s unpack the story behind this unexpected leadership twist.
Rizwan Out, Agha In — The Big Shuffle
First, a quick rewind. In late 2024, Mohammad Rizwan had been handed white-ball captaincy duties after Babar Azam stepped down. However, as 2025 rolled in, things began to shift — and fast.
Just ahead of the New Zealand tour, Rizwan was removed as T20I captain, though he stayed on as ODI skipper. At this point, most assumed Shadab Khan, a former vice-captain and seasoned T20 performer, would take over.
But the PCB had other plans.
The Wahab Riaz Factor: Power Behind the Curtain?
According to sources, the appointment of Salman Ali Agha wasn’t just a cricketing decision — it was a political chess move within the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).
At the centre of this plot twist? Wahab Riaz — former fast bowler, current PCB official, and reportedly a close confidant of PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi.
While most voices inside the selection room were in favor of Shadab Khan, it was Wahab who firmly pushed for Salman’s name, and eventually convinced others to follow suit.
A Meeting of Minds… And a Change of Heart
Before the squad for New Zealand was finalized, a crucial meeting took place. Those present included:
- Mike Hesson, who wasn’t yet officially appointed but was already influencing decisions
- Interim head coach Aqib Javed
- Selectors Aleem Dar and Hasan Cheema
Mentors from the Champions Cup program were also consulted, though Shoaib Malik and Waqar Younis couldn’t attend. Those who did — Misbah-ul-Haq, Saqlain Mushtaq, and Sarfaraz Ahmed — all advised that the captaincy should go to Shadab.
But then came the twist.
Chairman Naqvi reportedly directed the selectors and mentors to meet with Wahab Riaz for an hour and justify why Shadab, who had been struggling to make the XI recently, should lead the side. What followed was a change of tone.
A “Consensus” is Reached
After the meeting with Wahab, a message was relayed to Naqvi: there was now consensus on Agha Salman’s appointment. And just like that, the decision was made official.
Salman Ali Agha was named T20I captain, with Shadab Khan appointed his vice-captain — a decision that still has many fans and pundits scratching their heads.
Salman’s appointment might look surprising on paper, but perhaps the PCB is trying to groom a calm, composed leader ahead of major tournaments. Or maybe this is more about internal politics than long-term vision.
Either way, it marks a significant shift in how leadership decisions are being handled in Pakistan cricket.
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