Pakistan’s white-ball vice-captain Shadab Khan is likely to miss the upcoming Asia Cup 2025, as he continues rehabilitation following shoulder surgery conducted earlier this month in the United Kingdom.
The 26-year-old all-rounder had aggravated an existing shoulder issue, which had already sidelined him from Pakistan’s recent T20I series against Bangladesh and the ongoing tour of the West Indies. According to medical estimates, Shadab will need at least three more months to fully recover, effectively ruling him out of the Asia Cup scheduled from September 9 to 28 in the UAE.
“A return before October appears improbable,” a source close to the team shared, indicating that the Asia Cup window is out of reach for the seasoned spinner and lower-order batter.
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Vice-Captaincy Remains Unfilled
Despite Shadab’s prolonged absence, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has yet to announce a replacement for the T20 vice-captaincy. During the series against Bangladesh, the team did not name a deputy, and Salman Ali Agha, who is leading the squad in the Caribbean, is also without a designated second-in-command.
No official statement has been released by the PCB regarding Shadab’s rehabilitation timeline or leadership succession, leaving questions about stability within the squad as a key tournament looms.
Asia Cup 2025: Format, Groups & Key Fixtures
The Asian Cricket Council (ACC) has confirmed the schedule for the Asia Cup 2025, which will serve as a preparation tournament for the ICC T20 World Cup 2026. Hosted in the United Arab Emirates, this year’s edition will be played in T20 format.
Key Asia Cup Dates:
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Opening Match: Afghanistan vs Hong Kong – September 9
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Pakistan vs Oman: September 12
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India vs Pakistan: September 14 (Dubai)
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Possible Super Four Rematch: September 21
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Final: September 28
Group Distribution:
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Group A: Pakistan, India, UAE, Oman
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Group B: Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Afghanistan, Hong Kong
With Shadab’s absence confirmed, Pakistan may need to restructure its bowling attack and leadership strategy ahead of these high-stakes matches, particularly the always-intense Pakistan vs India clash on September 14.
What This Means for Pakistan Cricket
Shadab Khan’s absence is a significant blow to Pakistan’s plans, given his experience, versatility, and leadership. His role as a key bowler in middle overs and lower-order contributor with the bat makes him hard to replace.
The team management must now focus on identifying in-form spinners and grooming leadership options ahead of both the Asia Cup and the 2026 T20 World Cup.
Further Links:
Asian Cricket Council – Asia Cup
