Ravichandran Ashwin has identified Salman Ali Agha as a potential “poster boy” for Pakistan cricket, especially as the nation prepares to host the 2025 Champions Trophy. Contrary to expectations, Ashwin did not mention star players Babar Azam or Mohammad Rizwan but praised Agha’s abilities, highlighting his impressive presence on the field and pressure-handling skills. Agha, 31, has made a strong impact in 34 ODIs, scoring 957 runs with an average over 45, while also contributing as a bowler. Ashwin believes Agha could outshine established players like Babar and Rizwan, making him crucial for Pakistan’s success.
Ravichandran Ashwin, the legendary Indian spinner, has made a bold assertion about who he believes could become the “poster boy” of Pakistan cricket. As Pakistan prepares to host the Champions Trophy 2025—marking the first time in nearly thirty years that the nation is hosting a major ICC event—Ashwin has identified a specific player to shine during the tournament. Interestingly, it is not star batter Babar Azam or wicket-keeper captain Mohammad Rizwan.
Instead, Ashwin has highlighted 31-year-old all-rounder Salman Ali Agha as someone who could eclipse the legacies of Babar and Rizwan.
“I am excited about two players: Tayyab Tahir and Salman Ali Agha. Salman Agha is a remarkable talent. He possesses both quality and the ability to excel under pressure,” Ashwin stated on his Hindi-language YouTube channel ‘Ash ki Baat‘.
Ashwin elaborated on the qualities that make Salman Ali Agha a promising star for Pakistan cricket.
“For the first time in many years, I see a Pakistani player with a significant on-field presence. I genuinely hope he doesn’t follow in the footsteps of some other players. He has the potential to become the poster boy for Pakistan cricket. I believe his abilities could allow him to surpass Babar Azam and Rizwan,” Ashwin remarked.
In his 34 ODIs for Pakistan, Agha has amassed 957 runs at an impressive average of over 45 and has taken 16 wickets, establishing himself as a strong all-round option for the team.
Recently, Agha scored 134 runs and led Pakistan in a successful chase of 353 against South Africa.
“I may not know his exact age, but I am a fan of his style of play. He has the skill set to execute various shots,” Ashwin commented.
Salman Ali Agha made his international debut in Tests and ODIs in 2022, and he has quickly become one of Pakistan’s key players for maintaining team balance. Thus far, Agha has scored three centuries in 21 Test matches and taken 19 wickets.
During the Champions Trophy 2025, Pakistan will face off against New Zealand, India, and Bangladesh, with their match against India set to take place in Dubai.
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