The Pakistan cricket team is contemplating appointing Mohammad Rizwan as the new white-ball captain following Babar Azam’s resignation.
As the current vice-captain, Rizwan is the frontrunner for the role, but discussions are ongoing regarding his deputy, with Shadab Khan, Saim Ayub, Shan Masood, and Shaheen Afridi among the contenders.
Reports suggest the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is considering whether to assign separate captains for the ODI and T20I formats or to designate a strong vice-captain who could step in when Rizwan needs rest.
A PCB source emphasized that managing workload is a key concern, with coaches Gary Kirsten and Jason Gillespie questioning whether Rizwan can handle the demanding international schedule. “Rizwan is the leading choice for white-ball captaincy,” the source said. “But with 18 ODIs and T20Is lined up across Australia, Zimbabwe, and South Africa from November to December, along with additional series, his workload is a major concern.”
Rizwan is expected to guide Pakistan through a packed schedule, including the ICC Champions Trophy and a two-test series against South Africa. The final decision on his vice-captain or potential co-leader in certain formats is still under review.