Pak abolish vice-captain position
After the Bangladesh tour, no vice-captain has been appointed for the upcoming white-ball series against the West Indies either.
Mike Hesson and Shadab Khan were both part of the HBL Pakistan Super League franchise Islamabad United as coach and player, respectively, and developed a good understanding during that time. The coach has full confidence in the all-rounder's abilities and considers him a good team man.
Sources revealed that it was Hesson who recommended not appointing a vice-captain for the Bangladesh tour, as he was waiting for Shadab Khan's return, which currently does not seem imminent. No announcement has been made for a vice-captain for the West Indies series either. In the ODI squad, Mohammad Rizwan's deputy is Salman Ali Agha.
Further sources disclosed that an "influential selector" is staunchly against Shadab Khan's inclusion in the team. In a recent meeting, he reportedly stated that bringing the senior all-rounder back into the team was a mistake, and he absolutely should not be made vice-captain. According to him, Salman Ali Agha is a non-political cricketer who focuses solely on his game.
Although Shadab was the vice-captain, he was often seen leading the team on the field. He would change his batting order on his own and, at times, pushed for the inclusion of certain players. Due to his connection with Islamabad United, he has good relations with Hesson, which he allegedly uses to his advantage. It is important to note that there is no possibility of Shadab Khan being fit in time for the Asia Cup; he is likely to return in October. It is still unclear whether a vice-captain will be appointed for the mega event or not.
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