In a major development ahead of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, Pakistan have decided to continue backing Salman Ali Agha as their T20I captain. Despite outside noise and speculation around a potential leadership shuffle, the PCB’s top decision-makers remain fully confident in Salman’s ability to guide the national side into the mega event.
According to sources within the board, Salman has played a crucial role in rebuilding the team’s discipline, unity, and overall mindset. The management believes his calm leadership and clear communication have brought stability to the dressing room — something Pakistan desperately needed during the early part of 2025.
The upcoming T20 World Cup, scheduled for February–March 2026 in India and Sri Lanka, had triggered debates around whether Shadab Khan or Shaheen Shah Afridi could take over the reins. However, insiders now reveal that Pakistan’s “think tank” sees no reason to change what’s working.
A senior PCB official noted that the team appears “more focused and committed under Salman,” crediting him for reviving Pakistan’s fighting spirit. And the numbers support that — Pakistan registered 21 T20I victories in 2025, the most by any full-member nation.
Salman, who has captained Pakistan in 38 of his 40 T20Is, has also grown into one of the most successful T20I leaders in the country’s history. With 23 wins, he now sits behind only Babar Azam (48) and Sarfaraz Ahmed (29). His leadership resume already includes a Tri-Nation Series title and a memorable run to the Asia Cup final.
Although his batting form has been questioned at times, Salman’s timely unbeaten 63 against Sri Lanka in the recent tri-series has strengthened his position further.
Meanwhile, Shadab Khan is expected to rejoin the national squad for the Sri Lanka tour after recovering from shoulder surgery earlier this year. The all-rounder has been training at the NCA and will feature in the Big Bash League from December 14 to prove his fitness.
Pakistan’s BBL-bound players are set to depart next week, with the squad for the Sri Lanka series to be finalized soon after.
