PCB decides not to appoint vice-captain for T20 World Cup 2024

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has decided not to appoint a vice-captain for the ICC T20 World Cup, reliable sources within the PCB confirmed on Saturday.

The decision means that fast bowler Shaheen Shah Afridi, who was speculated to be a potential candidate for the vice-captaincy, will not be taking up the role. Sources close to the PCB clarified that no formal offer was made to Afridi regarding this position.

"If there were any plans to appoint a vice-captain, the announcement would have been made simultaneously with the national squad selection," a PCB source stated. 

This strategic move emphasizes that the PCB is confident in the leadership of Babar Azam, who continues as the fully empowered captain of the Pakistan national team.

The absence of a vice-captain indicates a clear endorsement of Babar’s leadership capabilities. The PCB appears to be consolidating its support behind Babar, entrusting him with full authority to lead the team in one of cricket's most prestigious tournaments.

Pakistan Squad for T20 World Cup 2024:

Babar Azam (C), Saim Ayub, Mohammad Rizwan, Azam Khan, Shadab Khan, Fakhar Zaman, Usman Khan, Iftikhar Ahmed, Imad Wasim, Abrar Ahmed, Mohammad Abbas Afridi, Mohammad Amir, Naseem Shah, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Haris Rauf.

Pakistan’s schedule of matches:

6 June – vs USA, Grand Prairie Cricket Stadium, Dallas
9 June – vs India, Nassau County International Cricket Stadium, New York
11 June – vs Canada, Nassau County International Cricket Stadium, New York
16 June – vs Ireland, Central Broward Park & Broward County Stadium, Lauderhill, Florida