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No Rizwan, Shaheen; PCB Shortlists Three Star Batters To Replace Babar Azam - Reports

Pakistan Cricket Team- (Source: @Johns/X.com)Pakistan Cricket Team- (Source: @Johns/X.com)

In a significant development around Pakistan cricket, the PCB has shortlisted Fakhar Zaman, Salman Ali Agha, and Saud Shakeel's names to the list of potential contenders for the captain's role. Recently, Babar Azam stepped down as Pakistan skipper, following which the position has been vacant and need to be filled fast ahead of the Champions Trophy 2025. 

According to a report from Geo Super, the Mohsin Naqvi-led board is impressed by Saud Shakeel and Fakhar Zaman's performances, which is why they are now the top contenders to succeed Babar. 

Earlier, there were reports that Mohammad Rizwan is the PCB's top choice as the next captain and that the apex cricket board of Pakistan has also begun consulting team strategies with Rizwan. However, Geo Super reported that head coach Gary Kirsten is against Rizwan being appointed captain because of workload management. 

Saud Shakeel, Fakhar Zaman, and Agha Salman Impress PCB

In the recently concluded Test series against Bangladesh at home, Saud Shakeel was named vice-captain, where he impressed the selectors with his performance. Talking about, Fakhar Zaman, he  has previously captained Lahore Qalandars in the Pakistan Super League (PSL). It is worth noting that several cricket pundits in Pakistan have backed Zaman to succeed Babar.

Pakistan will next face England at home in a Test series where Shan Masood will lead the side, but they need to pick a captain fast as they will also face Australia away from home in a three-match ODI series starting on November 4. 

Reason Behind Babar's Resignation As Pakistan Captain

According to the report, Babar felt a disconnect from the players and sensed that he was undervalued within the team. Sources suggest that following the World Cup, the PCB distanced itself from Babar and there was a lack of communication. 

The 29-year-old was excluded from any consultation processes. Before announcing his resignation, Babar communicated his decision to a senior board official.