Sahibzada Farhan Emerges as Strong Candidate for Pakistan’s New T20I Captain

Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is considering a change in the national team’s T20I leadership, with Sahibzada Farhan emerging as a leading candidate for the captaincy on a long-term basis.

According to sources familiar with the matter, the PCB is working with head coach Mike Hesson on a long-term plan focused on the 2028 T20 World Cup. The strategy includes developing younger players and building a strong core for the national side over the next two years.

Farhan has already been given an opportunity to lead Pakistan after being named captain for the country’s T20 squad at the Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan. Abdul Samad was appointed vice-captain of the 15-member squad announced in June.

Farhan is also expected to continue as Pakistan’s captain for the upcoming three-match home T20I series against Sri Lanka. The matches are scheduled to be played at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium on October 9, 11 and 13.

Sources said Hesson supports the idea of continuing with Farhan as captain in the shortest format. However, his leadership and batting performances at the Asian Games will be closely monitored before the PCB makes a final decision on the permanent captaincy.

Meanwhile, Salman Ali Agha’s recent performances in international cricket have added uncertainty to his future as Pakistan’s T20I captain. The all-rounder currently leads the side in the format, but the team management is reportedly exploring a longer-term leadership setup.

Experienced batter Fakhar Zaman is also expected to return to Pakistan’s T20I setup.

However, the return of senior fast bowlers Shaheen Shah Afridi and Haris Rauf is reportedly unlikely at this stage.

With the 2028 T20 World Cup as a key target, the PCB and team management are looking to provide opportunities to younger players, improve squad depth and establish a stable leadership structure for the future.