‘Aggressive, speaks well’: Akhtar picks Shadab for Pakistan captaincy

Former Pakistan cricketer, Shoaib Akhtar, believes that Islamabad United captain, Shadab Khan, possess leadership qualities and can lead Pakistan in white-ball cricket in future.

While speaking on a local TV channel, the former pacer said that the all-rounder has improved as a cricketer and is very cautious about his on-screen image.

"Shadab is a very smart kid when it comes to cricket skills. He wants to improve, which is a very good thing. He is ready to accept his mistakes and rectify them. In past two years, he has worked really hard on his bowling and his fitness has improved as well," Akhtar said.

"He is also very vigilant when it comes to managing his career. He wants to look good and speaks well. In times to come, he is not a bad option for captaincy for Pakistan in white-ball cricket," he added.

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Akhtar had recently criticized Babar Azam’s communication skills and said that he wants the Pakistan captain to become as big a brand as Indian superstar batsman, Virat Kohli.

Since PSL doesn’t have a team representing Rawalpindi yet, the Rawalpindi Express is supporting Islamabad United to clinch the PSL trophy this season.

"Shadab is a great captain and future of Pakistan cricket. I think Shadab is an aggressive captain with a balanced team, great batting line-up and a great attitude. Shadab and Azhar Mahmood’s as coach are looking great and they can win the PSL 8 trophy," he said.

United are sitting currently second on the points table, having won three of their first four games this season.