Following the disastrous ICC Champions Trophy 2025, it seems like the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has decided to shake up the team for the upcoming series against New Zealand. According to reports, Shadab Khan is likely to take the helm as captain with former cricketer Mohammad Yousuf poised to step in as the new coach.
However, the restructuring of the team has raised eyebrows, with critics suggesting that the changes appear reactionary and lack a coherent strategy. Many believe the overhaul is whimsical and insensible, rather than a well-thought-out plan for the future.
While the bowling lineup remains strong with the likes of Shaheen Afridi and Haris Rauf, concerns have been raised about the batting order. Questions linger over who will step up to deliver runs in crucial situations, especially given the influx of younger players into the squad.
Here is Pakistan’s likely squad for the upcoming T20 series against New Zealand:
| Shadab Khan (c) | Muhammad Haris | Sufiyan Muqeem | Irfan Khan Niazi |
| Shaheen Afridi | Abbas Afridi | Jahandad Khan | Abrar Ahmed |
| Umair bin Yousuf | Khushdil Shah | Hassan Nawaz | Abdul Samad |
| Haris Rauf | Usman Khan | Hussain Talat | Mohammad Ali |
The decision to induct young talent is commendable, especially with an eye on the ICC T20 World Cup next year. However, experts caution against throwing raw talent into high-pressure situations without adequate support and experience. As the team prepares for the series, the focus will be on balancing youth with experience to ensure a competitive performance against New Zealand
