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Aqib Javed Announces Major Changes in Pakistan Squad for New Zealand Tour
Pakistan’s squad for the New Zealand tour revealed! Salman Ali Agha named T20 captain, while Muhammad Rizwan remains ODI skipper. Aqib Javed continues as interim coach.
ND
by News Desk
2025-03-04
Aqib Javed Announces Major Changes in Pakistan Squad for New Zealand Tour

National cricket team coach Aqib Javed has announced significant changes in Pakistan's ODI and T20 squads for the upcoming New Zealand tour. In a press conference, he confirmed that Salman Ali Agha will lead the T20 team, with Shadab Khan as vice-captain, while Muhammad Rizwan will continue as the ODI captain.

Squad Selection and Key Inclusions

The Pakistan squad for the tour includes several fresh faces, with players selected based on their outstanding domestic performances. The complete squad is as follows:

Squad:

  • T20 Captain: Salman Ali Agha
  • T20 Vice-Captain: Shadab Khan
  • ODI Captain: Muhammad Rizwan
  • Abdul Samad, Abrar Ahmed, Haris Rauf, Jehandad Khan, Hassan Nawaz, Khushdil Shah, Muhammad Abbas Afridi, Muhammad Ali, Muhammad Haris, Muhammad Irfan Khan, Umair Bin Yousuf, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Sufyan Muqim, Usman Khan (wicketkeeper)

Notable Inclusions:

  • Hassan Nawaz, Akif Javed, Muhammad Ali, and Abdul Samad earned their places due to impressive performances in domestic cricket.
  • Openers Fakhar Zaman and Saim Ayub were not considered for selection on medical advice.

Coaching Setup and Series Schedule

Aqib Javed will remain the interim head coach for the New Zealand tour, extending his tenure beyond his initial term, which was set to end after the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has asked him to continue until a permanent head coach is appointed. Former cricketer Mohammad Yousuf has been named the batting coach for the tour.

Pakistan is set to play five Twenty20 Internationals (T20Is) and three One-Day Internationals (ODIs) against New Zealand from March 16 to April 5, 2025. The series will serve as crucial preparation for upcoming international tournaments.

With a mix of experienced players and emerging talents, Pakistan’s squad aims to put up a strong performance against New Zealand in their backyard.
Tagged:

PakistanCricket

AqibJaved

T20Squad

ODISquad

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