PCB Denies Rumors of Mohammad Rizwan’s Removal as ODI Captain

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August 26, 2025 0 377

The PCB confirmed that Mohammad Rizwan will remain Pakistan’s ODI captain despite the team’s recent series loss to West Indies.

Speculation around Mohammad Rizwan’s ODI captaincy has intensified despite his exclusion from Pakistan’s 17-member Asia Cup squad. The debate began after Pakistan’s 2-1 series defeat against West Indies, where the side collapsed for 92 in the final ODI.

Rizwan endured a poor run, managing only 69 runs across three games, with 53 being his highest score. Following the defeat, several reports claimed the PCB was reviewing leadership roles in both ODIs and Tests, with Rizwan and Shan Masood under scrutiny.

However, according to reports from Geo Super, PCB sources confirmed that no such discussions are underway. There is no plan to strip Masood of the Test role or replace him with Saud Shakeel. Similarly, Rizwan’s position as ODI skipper remains secure, with no immediate changes expected. Current T20I captain Salman Ali Agha is also not being considered for the 50-over job. For now, Rizwan retains PCB’s backing despite growing public pressure.

The wicketkeeper-batter is also out of favour in T20Is, along with Babar Azam, after the Champions Trophy debacle where Pakistan exited in the group stage.

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Both players have been told to improve their strike rates to regain a spot in the shortest format. Salman Ali Agha will lead the side in the Asia Cup, marking another shift in leadership. Rizwan had earlier replaced Babar as ODI captain, but his own future remains under the scanner.

Last week, the PCB released its new central contracts list, where both Rizwan and Babar were demoted to Grade B. No player was offered a Grade A contract. Pakistan will play a tri-series against Afghanistan and the UAE before the Asia Cup. The team starts its campaign on September 12 against Oman in Dubai.