Shadab Khan ready for Pakistan captaincy: Hasan Ali names Babar Azam's replacement

Pakistan pacer Hasan Ali has reckoned that Shadab Khan is ready and has the capability to lead Pakistan. The statement from Hasan has come at a time when Babar Azam's captaincy is under scrutiny. Notably, failed to win a single Test match against England and New Zealand at home. Later, the Kiwis defeated Pakistan 2-1 to run salt on Pakistan's wound.

Split captaincy in Pakistan cricket?

There is speculation in the media that the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is mulling over split captaincy option and Babar could be replaced as captain in one of the formats.

"He is ready [for the Pakistan captaincy]. He has proved himself as a captain in PSL. I think he has also led Pakistan in two matches, so I think he is ready. He is always ready for any challenge and gives his best," Hasan said when he was asked to share his thoughts on Shadab as the next captain of Pakistan cricket team.

Shadab, who has scored over 1000 runs and picked 182 wickets at international level, is the vice-captain of Pakistan in limited overs format. However, the 24-year-old missed the recent ODI series against New Zealand due to injury. Top-order batter Shan Masood was named the vice-captain for the series against the Blackcaps.

The all-rounder, who has led Pakistan thrice in T20Is (won one and lost two) will be seen leading Islamabad United in Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2023. He has led the team 32 times till date, with the team winning 17 and losing 15. Notably, Hasan is part of the same team. United play their first match against Karachi Kings at the National Cricket Stadium on Thursday, February 16.

Babar will lead the Peshawar Zalmi who play their first match against Karachi Kings on Tuesday, February 14. The final of the competition will be played on March 19 at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore.