PCB Dismisses Reports of Leadership Changes in ODI and Test Teams

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has categorically denied media reports suggesting changes were being considered in the national team’s leadership across the Test and ODI formats.

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In a statement issued on Monday, the PCB clarified that there is no plan to replace wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan as ODI captain, nor is there any move to strip Shan Masood of the Test captaincy.

Over the weekend, local media was abuzz with murmurs of upcoming changes, which have been reported for some time. Pakistan’s ODI and Test teams have been underperforming, leading many to believe that a leadership change is a mere formality for the PCB at this point. Salman Ali Agha, the T20I captain, was reportedly set to take over the ODI duties from Rizwan, while Saud Shakeel was set to replace Shan Masood in the Test leadership role.

The board further emphasized that the matter has not been discussed in selection committee meetings. The clarification, however, does not guarantee the duo’s future in their roles. The PCB’s statement notably said the matter has not been discussed “yet.” This wording is similar to previous instances, such as when the board denied reports of Jason Gillespie’s imminent departure just before the Australian parted ways with the team.

For now, it appears the current captains will continue to lead their respective formats, with Shan Masood in Tests and Mohammad Rizwan in ODIs, as Pakistan prepares for upcoming international assignments.

However, how long they will stay in those roles is anyone’s guess.

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