Salman Ali Agha is set to stay on as Pakistan’s T20I captain, with the team management confident in his leadership ahead of the 2026 T20 World Cup.
According to PCB insiders, the board’s decision-makers believe Salman Ali Agha has successfully restored discipline, unity, and a winning mentality within the squad. His leadership has impressed the “think tank,” making him the frontrunner to lead Pakistan in the mega event.
The 2026 T20 World Cup will take place in February and March, jointly hosted by India and Sri Lanka. While there had been speculation about Shadab Khan or Shaheen Shah Afridi taking over the captaincy, senior officials now indicate that no change is being considered.
A high-ranking PCB official said that Salman’s influence has helped revive the team’s fighting spirit, adding that the players “look more focused and committed under him,” leaving little justification for altering the setup.
Pakistan has enjoyed an impressive year in T20Is, registering 21 victories in 2025, the most among full-member nations. Salman has captained 38 of his 40 T20 Internationals, scoring 671 runs at an average of 24.85.
With 23 wins as skipper, he is now Pakistan’s third-most successful T20I captain, behind Babar Azam (48 wins) and Sarfaraz Ahmed (29 wins). His tenure includes a Tri-Nation Series title and a run to the Asia Cup final.
Although Salman’s batting form has drawn criticism at times, his unbeaten 63 against Sri Lanka in the recent tri-series has strengthened his case.
Meanwhile, Shadab Khan is expected to rejoin the national squad as a player for the upcoming Sri Lanka tour. The all-rounder last appeared for Pakistan in June against Bangladesh before undergoing shoulder surgery in London.
Having recovered and trained extensively at the NCA in Lahore, Shadab is set to prove his match fitness in the Big Bash League starting December 14.
Pakistan’s BBL-bound players will depart next week, while the squad for the Sri Lanka series will be finalized afterward.
