Mohammad Haris Set to Replace Shadab Khan as Pakistan’s T20I Vice-Captain Ahead of Asia Cup 2025
Shadab Khan’s Injury Forces Leadership Reshuffle
Shadab Khan, Pakistan’s premier all-rounder and current T20I vice-captain, is facing a three-month layoff due to a chronic right shoulder injury. Medical professionals have advised surgery, likely to be performed in the United Kingdom. This rehabilitation period rules him out of Pakistan’s immediate white-ball fixtures, including the July T20I series against Bangladesh and the Asia Cup 2025, tentatively scheduled for September.
Mohammad Haris: The Next Vice-Captain?
In Shadab’s absence, 24-year-old Mohammad Haris is expected to be named the new T20I vice-captain. Haris is no stranger to leadership; he has captained Pakistan Shaheens and Pakistan A, including at the ACC Emerging Asia Cup, and has led domestic franchises such as Peshawar Zalmi. Haris made headlines earlier this year by scoring a blistering 107*, the first T20I century by a non-opener for Pakistan.
Pakistan’s Upcoming Schedule (July–Sept 2025)
| Series/Event | Dates | Venue | Shadab Khan | Mohammad Haris |
| T20I Series vs Bangladesh | July 20–24, 2025 | Dhaka | ❌ Out | ✅ Vice-Captain |
| Training Camp | Starts July 8, 2025 | Karachi | ❌ Out | ✅ Attending |
| Tri-Nation Series (Afghanistan & UAE) | August 2025 | TBD | ❌ Out | ✅ Likely In |
| Asia Cup 2025 | Tentatively September | TBD | ❌ Doubtful | ✅ Key Player |
Quick Profile: Mohammad Haris
| Attribute | Detail |
| Date of Birth | March 30, 2001 |
| Age | 24 years |
| Role | Wicketkeeper-batter |
| Known For | Aggressive batting, leadership |
| T20I Matches | 17 |
| Domestic Teams | Peshawar Zalmi, ABL Stallions |
| Achievements | Led Pakistan A, Emerging Asia Cup winner, T20I 100 scorer |
Strategic Impact & Leadership Shift
- Shadab’s Absence: A major loss. With 100+ T20I wickets and a balanced middle-order role, Shadab’s all-round value is irreplaceable in the short term.
- Haris’s Opportunity: A rising star steps into a leadership role, signaling PCB’s trust in youth.
- Team Chemistry: Salman Ali Agha remains T20I captain. Haris, as deputy, will likely have a strategic voice in planning and field decisions.
- Depth Concerns: With Naseem Shah and Mohammad Wasim Jr. also in doubt due to fitness, Pakistan’s squad depth will be tested.
FAQs
Q1: Why is Shadab Khan not playing in the upcoming T20I series?
A: He is undergoing surgery for a persistent shoulder injury and will be out for approximately three months.
Q2: Who will replace Shadab Khan as Pakistan’s T20I vice-captain?
A: Mohammad Haris is expected to be appointed as the new vice-captain.
Q3: Is Mohammad Haris experienced enough for the leadership role?
A: Yes, he has captained Pakistan A, Shaheens, and several domestic sides. His recent T20I performances and temperament have impressed selectors.
Q4: Will Shadab return in time for the Asia Cup 2025?
A: Unlikely. Given the recovery timeline, he may only return close to the T20 World Cup 2026.
Q5: Who is the current T20I captain?
A: Salman Ali Agha.
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