By Uzma Sahar 
The Pakistan Super League (PSL) always sparks lively debate, and PSL 9 is no different. Former Pakistani cricketer Basit Ali has stirred the pot with a daring suggestion: that Muhammad Rizwan should replace Babar Azam as captain of Pakistan’s national cricket team.
Appearing on the popular PSL analysis show ‘Har Lamha Purjosh’, Ali argued that with Mohsin Naqvi now leading the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), it’s a prime opportunity for a shakeup. Ali believes Rizwan’s leadership could elevate the team’s performance.
“This is the moment to appoint Rizwan as captain and boost Pakistan’s cricket standing,” Ali declared. “My advice to the new PCB chairman is simple: be bold and make the change.”
Ali wasn’t shy about criticizing Shaheen Shah Afridi’s recent stint as captain. He believes the pressure of leadership contributed to Pakistan’s disappointing loss to New Zealand and negatively impacted Afridi’s bowling. Ali feels that with the World Cup looming, now is the time for a leadership change.
However, another cricket expert, Kamran Akmal, believes Afridi deserves more time. He suggests giving Afridi one or two years to fully develop his captaincy skills.
Should Rizwan Take the Helm?
Basit Ali’s proposal raises compelling questions. Would Rizwan’s leadership style revitalize the Pakistani team? Or is it too soon to pull the rug out from under Afridi? The debate is sure to rage on as Pakistan’s cricket journey continues.