The PCB has reportedly cast doubt on Mohammad Rizwan's status as Pakistan's ODI captain, stating in a statement that the board had "yet to finalize a captain" for the next series against South Africa. Also, Salman Ali Agha, Pakistan’s T20I captain, is in danger after losing to India thrice, including the final in the recent Asia Cup 2025.

While the three-match ODI series will take place from November 4 to 8, Pakistan will play three Twenty20 Internationals (T20Is) against South Africa from October 28 to November 1. The PCB has not yet revealed the teams for either series.

Rizwan was named ODI captain last year and helped Pakistan win series in Australia, Zimbabwe, and South Africa. However, a loss to New Zealand in a home tri-series final, an early departure from the Champions Trophy 2025, and an away series defeat in the West Indies have jeopardized his captaincy.

While there had been doubt over Rizwan's fate, no precise cricketing reasons were shared about his possible exit from captaincy. There has been no notable decline in batting or keeping form; Rizwan is Pakistan's second-best scorer in ODIs this year, with 361 runs at more than 36.

While Rizwan has not officially been removed yet, the statement makes it all but inevitable.

On the other hand, PTI reported that Salman Agha is set to lose his Pakistan T20I captaincy to spin-bowling all-rounder Shadab Khan. According to the report, the PCB believes Shadab Khan will bring balance to the Pakistan team and is the appropriate pick as they aim to reset before the T20 World Cup in 2026. Shadab Khan recently completed his recovery regimen following shoulder surgery in England earlier this year.

However, there is no assurance that Shadab Khan would lead Pakistan against South Africa. He is most likely to return for the T20I tri-series, which begins on November 17. Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe will play in the T20I series, alongside the hosts, Pakistan.

(PTI inputs)