Rashid Latif backs Salman and Shaheen for Pakistan captaincy

Former Pakistan wicketkeeper Rashid Latif has expressed confidence in two current Pakistan players as potential captains across different formats. Latif’s assessment comes as Pakistan prepares for upcoming international assignments, including a three-Test series against England scheduled from August 19 to September 13. The former cricketer has identified specific formats where each player could excel in leadership roles based on their current experience and tactical capabilities.

Salman Ali Agha currently leads Pakistan’s T20I side, while Shaheen Afridi holds the captaincy in the ODI format. Both players have established themselves in the international setup and are navigating Pakistan’s evolving leadership structure across formats. Latif’s endorsement reflects his assessment of their respective strengths and suitability for different captaincy roles.

“Salman can be a good captain in ODIs and Tests, while Shaheen can be a good captain in T20Is,” Latif said as quoted by Batting with Bimal.

Salman Ali Agha’s potential in longer formats

Salman Ali Agha’s current role as T20I captain demonstrates his readiness to lead in the shortest format. However, Latif believes Salman possesses the qualities and cricket intelligence required to extend his leadership into the ODI and Test formats, where different tactical demands and longer match durations require distinct captaincy approaches. The assessment reflects confidence in Salman’s overall understanding of the game across all three formats and his decision-making abilities under varying match conditions.

Shaheen Afridi’s T20I leadership credentials

Left-arm pacer Shaheen Afridi was handed the captaincy in ODIs, taking on responsibility in the 50-over format. According to Latif’s assessment, Shaheen possesses the qualities needed to captain Pakistan’s T20I team, a role that requires specific skill sets suited to the fast-paced nature of the format. Pakistan’s captaincy structure has undergone changes in recent months, with different players leading across formats. The team recently completed a two-Test series against West Indies in Trinidad and Tobago, which finished as a 1-1 draw. As Pakistan prepared for the England Test series, the team continued to operate under its current leadership arrangement while building towards future assignments.

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