The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has strongly refuted media reports claiming changes in the leadership of Shan Masood and Mohammad Rizwan, clarifying that no discussions have taken place regarding captaincy replacements or alterations to player contracts.
In an official statement shared on X, the PCB spokesperson dismissed speculation that Shan Masood could be removed as Test captain and replaced by Saud Shakeel. The board also denied reports that Mohammad Rizwan might lose his ODI captaincy, clarifying that Salman Ali Agha is not being considered for the role.
“The selection committee has not discussed any matter or proposal regarding changes in captaincy,” the statement read. The PCB further emphasized that no player’s central contract category has been modified, countering recent media claims.
The clarification comes ahead of a busy cricketing calendar for Pakistan, starting with the Tri-Nation T20 Series in Sharjah from August 29 to September 7, featuring Afghanistan, UAE, and Pakistan. Each side will face the others twice before the final on September 7. Pakistan opens its campaign against Afghanistan on August 29.
Following the tri-series, the focus will shift to the ACC Asia Cup T20 2025, beginning September 9. Pakistan has been placed in Group A alongside India, UAE, and Oman. The men in green will face Oman on September 12, arch-rivals India on September 14, and hosts UAE on September 17. Super Four fixtures are scheduled between September 20–26, while the final will take place on September 28 in Dubai.
With rumors surrounding leadership firmly quashed, Pakistan’s preparations remain centered on delivering strong performances in the upcoming tournaments.
