Pakistan is expected to move towards a three-captain strategy across formats following Babar Azam’s decision to step down from limited-overs captaincy. Mohammad Rizwan is the top candidate to replace him, but concerns have been raised about his ability to manage the heavy workload of captaining and playing in all three formats. Head coach Gary Kirsten is reportedly among those who believe Rizwan may struggle with the demands of all-format leadership.
Initially set to lead Pakistan in upcoming white-ball series, Babar chose to resign, citing the need to focus on his batting and personal growth. “By stepping down, I will gain clarity moving forward and focus more energy on my game and personal development,” Babar shared on X (formerly Twitter).
While the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) accepted Babar’s resignation, they had hoped for him to continue leading the white-ball sides. “Babar Azam tendered his resignation on Tuesday evening, and it has been accepted,” the PCB stated, adding that the national selection committee is now tasked with formulating a future strategy and selecting a new limited-overs captain.
The selection committee, headed by white-ball coach Gary Kirsten and former cricketer Asad Shafiq, is expected to face challenges in selecting the next captain. Though Rizwan seems to be the obvious choice for white-ball leadership, his intense playing schedule across formats raises concerns about burnout.
Potential for Three Different Captains
Shan Masood, currently Pakistan’s Test captain, is likely to retain his position despite mixed results. However, in ODIs and T20Is, Rizwan is seen as the leading candidate. An insider noted, “Rizwan is the obvious choice for the white-ball captaincy, as he and Babar are the only players consistently selected in all three formats.”
Yet, Rizwan’s heavy workload has sparked concerns among key figures including Kirsten, red-ball coach Jason Gillespie, and PCB selectors. Pakistan’s packed international calendar, including 18 ODIs and T20Is in Australia, Zimbabwe, and South Africa by the year’s end, followed by a Test series in South Africa, is just the start of a demanding season. The team is scheduled for additional series and the Pakistan Super League (PSL) after the ICC Champions Trophy, raising concerns about player fatigue.
While Babar successfully captained all three formats for over three years, the PCB and team management have their doubts about whether Rizwan can manage similar pressures in both ODIs and T20Is, particularly alongside his role as a wicketkeeper-batter.
Alternatives for White-Ball Leadership
In light of these concerns, the PCB may opt for either separate ODI and T20I captains or appoint a strong vice-captain to ease Rizwan’s burden. This would allow Rizwan to take breaks when necessary, with his deputy stepping in as captain during those periods. Candidates under consideration include Shadab Khan, Saim Ayub, Shan Masood, and Shaheen Shah Afridi.
Kirsten has reportedly conveyed to the PCB that, following Babar’s recent dip in form and confidence, no other player currently seems equipped to handle the pressures of leading in two formats. This has intensified discussions around spreading the leadership responsibilities across different players to ensure team balance and avoid overburdening any one individual.
