With Pakistan’s white-ball leadership in transition following Babar Azam’s resignation, reports suggest that management is strongly considering Fakhar Zaman for the vice‑captaincy role in ODIs and T20Is. Known for his match-winning prowess, leadership in PSL, and experience, Fakhar is emerging as a top candidate to support captain Mohammad Rizwan ahead of the Asia Cup and ICC T20 World Cup campaigns.
🧠 Leadership Buzz & Management Support
- Former Pakistan batting legend Younis Khan has publicly backed Fakhar as a future white-ball captain, stating:
“He performs every single year… leaders are born; it’s not just about star prowess.”
- PCB insiders reveal Fakhar’s leadership experience with Lahore Qalandars in PSL makes him a respected locker-room figure. (
- Though Mohammad Rizwan remains Odi captain, management is seeking a strong vice‑captain to share leadership duties and groom future successors.
📈 Why Fakhar Zaman Stands Out
✅ Proven Match-Winner
- With impressive ODI stats (3,492+ ODI runs at avg ~46.5 and six centuries) and a return via Champions Trophy squad, Fakhar offers proven clutch performance.
✅ Redemption & Support
- Dropped from central contract after tweet controversy, Fakhar showed remorse and was fully reinstated—earning back trust and backing of PCB, selectors, and captain Rizwan & Captain Agha.
📌 Popular Voice from Within
- Ex-Teammate and swing bowler Mohammad Amir called him “the only impact player in white-ball cricket for Pakistan”.
⚖️ Leadership Credibility
- Younis, in backing Fakhar, noted that traits like temperament, assertiveness, and consistent performance outweigh mere batting pedigree in leadership selection.
🗓️ Potential Timing & Roadmap
- The vice-captain discussion is expected to be finalized before the Asia Cup (starting Sept 2025), giving Fakhar time to assume the role in series against Afghanistan, UAE or South Africa.
- Selection likely hinges on fitness clearance—Fakhar must demonstrate full recovery following his prior knee injury before being formally confirmed.
- Pakistan coach Mike Hesson, working closely with selection committee, has reportedly advocated the move as part of a broader leadership strategy.
🧩 Pros & Cons Table
| ✅ Pros | ⚠️ Cons |
|---|---|
| Proven ODI & T20 match-winner | Inconsistent form in recent T20 WC tournaments |
| Experience leading PSL side adds leadership stimulus | Fitness concerns: previous knee injury and fitness tests |
| Commands respect in dressing room, vocal presence | Age (34) may limit long-term roadmap vs younger rising stars |
| Loyalty regained after disciplinary episode | Lack of prior international vice-captaincy experience |
❓ FAQs
Q1: Why is Pakistan considering Fakhar Zaman as vice-captain?
A: Following Babar Azam’s second resignation, PCB wants a senior, experienced player to support Rizwan. Fakhar’s leadership track record, veteran presence, and domestic captaincy credentials make him a standout choice.
Q2: Has Fakhar been punished before?
A: He was dropped from central contracts over a controversial tweet and fitness issues. After showing remorse and improving fitness, he was reinstated to the squad and contracts.
Q3: What role does Younis Khan play in this?
A: Younis publicly backed Fakhar’s leadership bid, overlooking other contenders like Rizwan and Shaheen Afridi. His support adds weight to the management’s thinking.
Q4: Is fitness a concern?
A: Yes—selectors reportedly insisted Fakhar prove knee fitness before formal selection. He returned to the Champions Trophy squad after fitness rehabilitation.
Q5: When can we expect an official announcement?
A: PCB and selectors may finalise vice-captain pick before Asia Cup 2025, potentially during Pakistan’s tri-series or bilateral series pre-Asia Cup.
🧠 Final Thoughts
Pakistan cricket is looking at structural changes in leadership, and Fakhar Zaman is emerging as a serious contender for the white-ball vice-captaincy. His aggression at the crease, yet mature leadership temperament, along with his public and stakeholder support, positions him well for the role. If confirmed, Fakhar would join ranks as the vocal strategist behind skipper Rizwan in shaping Pakistan’s limited-overs future.