With Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) exploring a new leadership structure after a string of inconsistent performances in the ODI format, one name has steadily risen through the ranks—Salman Ali Agha.
In a recent exclusive interview, the dynamic middle-order batter and all-rounder has finally opened up about the ODI captaincy offer, his vision, leadership philosophy, and what this role could mean for Pakistan's future.
👤 Who is Salman Ali Agha?
- Age: 30
- Born: Lahore, Pakistan
- Batting Style: Right-hand middle-order batter
- Bowling Style: Right-arm off-break
- Notable Role: T20I and emerging team captain (2025)
A solid contributor in all formats, Salman made his mark in domestic cricket before cementing his position in the national team. His ability to build innings, contribute with the ball, and bring calm leadership makes him a standout candidate.
📰 Background: Why the Captaincy Offer Now?
Pakistan's ODI team has lacked consistency, especially after the 2023 World Cup and subsequent bilateral series. With Babar Azam stepping down from white-ball captaincy and Shan Masood's brief stint under scrutiny, the PCB is reportedly considering split captaincy with different leaders for T20s, ODIs, and Tests.
Salman Ali Agha’s strong leadership in the recent T20I series against Zimbabwe and his composed presence in the dressing room have impressed the board.
🇵🇰 Mohammad Rizwan: Pakistan’s Current ODI Captain
🧢 Leadership Appointment
Mohammad Rizwan was officially named ODI captain of Pakistan in late 2024 after a turbulent World Cup campaign and Babar Azam’s resignation from white-ball leadership. PCB cited Rizwan’s maturity, consistency, and cool-headedness as primary reasons for handing him the role.
📊Rizwan’s ODI Captaincy Record (As of July 2025)
| Series/Tournament | Opponent | Venue | Outcome |
|---|---|---|---|
| ODI Series vs NZ (2025) | New Zealand | Home (Pakistan) | 🏆 2-1 Series Win |
| Champion Trophy (2025) | Multiple Teams | Dubai & Pakistan | ❌ Group Stage Exit |
| Ireland Tour (2025) | Ireland | Away (Ireland) | 🏆 3-0 Series Win |
| South Africa Tour (2025) | South Africa | Away (SA) | 🏆 2-1 Series Win |
| Australia Tour (2025) | Australia | Away (AUS) | 🏆 2-1 Series Win |
Rizwan has focused on team discipline, fitness, and batting stability, with strong support from the coaching staff. His diplomatic leadership style has received praise for bringing unity within the team.
🟢 Rizwan’s captaincy record now includes landmark victories in hostile conditions, including:
- First ODI series win in Australia in 20 years.
- A gritty series comeback in South Africa.
🗣️ Salman Ali Agha: “It’s an Honor I Didn’t Expect So Soon”
In a recent interview with Cricket Pakistan, Salman confirmed receiving an informal discussion from PCB officials regarding the ODI captaincy:
“Yes, I’ve had initial discussions with the selectors and PCB. I take it as a huge honor, something I didn't expect this early. It’s a responsibility that comes with a lot of weight, and if given the chance, I’ll give it everything.”
On what leadership means to him:
“Captaincy is not just about tactics; it's about building a culture—discipline, unity, and belief. I want to inspire players to play for the badge.”
🧠 What Makes Salman Ali Agha a Good Captain?
✔ Tactical Awareness
He has impressed with bowling changes and field placements in domestic and emerging tours.
✔ Calm Under Pressure
Salman’s composed demeanor is ideal for ODIs, where momentum shifts are frequent.
✔ Team Bonding
Known for maintaining a positive dressing room culture, especially among juniors and new call-ups.
✔ Batting Consistency
Has been one of the most reliable middle-order batters in List A and ODI matches over the past 2 seasons.
🇵🇰 PCB’s Thought Process Behind the Move
Sources inside the PCB say the board wants to:
- Groom new leadership before the 2027 ODI World Cup.
- Rotate responsibilities to reduce workload on senior players.
- Build a more tactical and flexible ODI unit with an eye on analytics.
📊 Salman’s ODI Career At a Glance
| Matches | Runs | Avg | 50s | 100s | Wickets | Best Bowling |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 21 | 638 | 38.11 | 6 | 1 | 12 | 3/37 |
Despite limited appearances, he has delivered whenever trusted. Notably, his 72* against Sri Lanka in the Asia Cup 2023 was hailed as a "mature match-saving knock."
🗨️ Expert Opinions
Ramiz Raja (Former PCB Chairman):
“He’s a deep thinker. I’ve always believed Salman had leadership material. The challenge is whether the board will back him long-term.”
Bazid Khan (Analyst & Commentator):
“ODIs are about adaptability and calm nerves. Salman brings both. He deserves a solid shot.”
Shoaib Malik:
“He’s the most improved cricketer in our setup over the past two years. It’s time to reward commitment and performance, not just star value.”
🧩 Challenges Ahead
- Winning the dressing room: With experienced players like Rizwan and Shaheen in the squad, it’s crucial that Salman maintains authority with humility.
- Media scrutiny: Pakistan captaincy brings a national spotlight—handling criticism is key.
- ODI structure: Pakistan’s frequent squad rotations have hurt momentum. Salman must advocate consistency in selection.
🏆 His Vision for Pakistan Cricket
In his own words:
“We need to play fearless but responsible cricket. ODIs aren’t about aggression alone—they’re about game awareness. I want to build a team that adapts to all conditions and delivers under pressure.”
He also mentioned emphasis on fitness, fielding, and backing youngsters who perform in domestic cricket.
📋 Future Tours & His Likely First Assignment
If the PCB confirms his captaincy, Salman’s likely first assignment could be the ODI series against South Africa or Ireland in late 2025, followed by preparation for the next icc events.
❓ FAQs About Salman Ali Agha’s Captaincy Candidacy
Q1: Has Salman captained Pakistan before?
A: Yes, he has captained Pakistan’s T20 Emerging and ‘A’ teams and led the senior side in a few unofficial tours and domestic series.
Q2: Is this appointment confirmed?
A: Not officially. Salman confirmed “initial discussions” but no formal announcement has been made yet.
Q3: Who else was in the running for the ODI captaincy?
A: Reports suggest that Mohammad Rizwan and Shaheen Afridi were also under consideration. However, workload management may favor a fresh face like Salman.
Q4: Will Babar Azam return as ODI captain?
A: There’s no current indication of that. PCB seems to be looking at new leadership options in white-ball formats.
Q5: Is Salman Ali Agha part of the long-term World Cup plan?
A: Yes. His selection in recent squads and growing influence suggests he’s being groomed for a core role leading into 2027.
Q6: Who is the current ODI captain of Pakistan?
A: Mohammad Rizwan is the current ODI captain as of 2025.
Q7: Is Salman Ali Agha replacing Rizwan?
A: No. Salman was approached informally as a leadership backup. Rizwan remains captain.