PCB announces white-ball squads against New Zealand
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has announced the squads for the upcoming limited-overs series against New Zealand, introducing notable leadership changes and new talent. Salman Ali Agha has been appointed as the captain of the T20 International (T20I) team, with Shadab Khan serving as vice-captain. This decision aims to prepare for major upcoming tournaments, including the ACC Men’s T20 Asia Cup 2025 and the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026.
In the One Day International (ODI) format, Mohammad Rizwan will continue as captain, with Salman Ali Agha acting as his deputy. The PCB’s strategy focuses on building a robust team for the ICC Men’s 50-over Cricket World Cup 2027, scheduled in Namibia, South Africa, and Zimbabwe.
The T20I squad features three uncapped players-Abdul Samad, Hasan Nawaz, and Mohammad Ali-rewarded for their impressive performances in domestic tournaments. Notably, Fakhar Zaman and Saim Ayub were not considered for selection due to injuries but are expected to be fit for the upcoming HBL Pakistan Super League 10.
Aqib Javed will continue as interim head coach for the New Zealand tour, with Mohammad Yousuf appointed as the batting coach. These appointments come after Pakistan’s recent performance in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, where the team faced challenges and did not advance to the semi-finals.
Pakistan white-ball squad vs New Zealand
T20I Squad: Salman Ali Agha (C), Shadab Khan (VC), Abdul Samad, Abrar Ahmed, Haris Rauf, Hasan Nawaz, Jahandad Khan, Khushdil Shah, Mohammad Abbas Afridi, Mohammad Ali, Mohammad Haris, Muhammad Irfan Khan, Omair Bin Yousaf, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Sufyan Moqim, Usman Khan.
ODI Squad: Mohammad Rizwan (C), Salman Ali Agha (VC), Abdullah Shafique, Abrar Ahmed, Akif Javed, Babar Azam, Faheem Ashraf, Imam-ul-Haq, Khushdil Shah, Mohammad Ali, Mohammad Wasim Jnr, Muhammad Irfan Khan, Naseem Shah, Sufyan Moqim, Tayyab Tahir.
