Pakistan’s exit from the T20 World Cup at the Super Eight stage has intensified scrutiny over the team’s leadership, with questions emerging about the future of captain Salman Ali Agha. Former Pakistan all-rounder Shahid Afridi has now weighed in, delivering a blunt verdict on both the current skipper and potential successor Shadab Khan.
Salman Ali Agha endured a difficult campaign with the bat, scoring just 60 runs in six matches. His struggles have fuelled speculation that he could be relieved of the captaincy as Pakistan begin reviewing their World Cup failures.
Amid that uncertainty, Afridi discussed the possibility of Shadab emerging as a leadership candidate, particularly due to his association with head coach Mike Hesson. Hesson previously worked with Shadab at Islamabad United in the Pakistan Super League, where the pair guided the franchise to the 2024 PSL title.
However, Afridi made it clear that recent performances do not justify such a promotion.
Speaking to Sama TV, he said: “If Mike Hesson remains coach, he has already worked with Shadab at Islamabad United and their understanding began in the PSL. The head coach is giving him continuous opportunities, which is why I said he could become Pakistan’s next captain. But based on his recent performances, he is not even worthy of a place in the playing XI.”
Shadab’s returns at the World Cup did little to strengthen his case. In six innings, he claimed only five wickets at an economy rate of 8.44. With the bat, his highest score was 36, which came against Namibia.
Afridi did not mince his words. “Considering his performances, I would not even keep him in the team, let alone make him captain,” he added.
The former captain stressed the need for a more assertive leader to guide Pakistan forward.
“Looking at the current situation, I would name Fakhar Zaman. I want an aggressive captain. At this moment, there is only one player who truly fits that role — and that is Fakhar,” Afridi said.
