Rauf on the Edge, Salman to Lead South Africa T20s

Pakistan’s Asia Cup 2025 campaign may have left bruises deeper than expected. While the selectors are preparing for the South Africa T20I series, the spotlight has quickly turned to captain Agha Salman and pacer Haris Rauf.

Salman, who endured a miserable tournament with the bat, just 72 runs in seven innings at a strike rate of 80.90, drew sharp criticism from fans and pundits alike. Yet, the rumours are he’s likely to continue as skipper.

The board’s reasoning? His leadership record. Salman has guided Pakistan to 17 wins in 30 matches, earning trust from key decision-makers who value his composure under pressure. 

But not everyone is as safe. Haris Rauf could be the biggest casualty of the Asia Cup fallout. Despite flashes of brilliance, his economy and lack of breakthroughs have reportedly unsettled the selectors. With younger pacers like Abbas Afridi and Sufiyan Muqeem impressing in domestic fixtures, Rauf’s place suddenly looks uncertain.

Meanwhile, openers Sahibzada Farhan and Fakhar Zaman are expected to retain their spots after consistent performances. Farhan’s 217 runs at an average of 31 led Pakistan’s scoring chart, while Fakhar’s stability at the top remains invaluable.

The probable T20I squad hints at a balanced mix of youth and experience.

Farhan, Fakhar, Saim Ayub, Hasan Nawaz, Agha Salman (C), Mohammad Haris (WK), Faheem Ashraf, Mohammad Nawaz, Abdul Samad, Shaheen Afridi, Hasan Ali, Abrar Ahmed, Abbas Afridi, Sufiyan Muqeem, and Mohammad Wasim Jr.

And yet, questions remain. Will Salman’s faith be rewarded, or will another series defeat reopen the captaincy debate?