Peshawar Zalmi rumour mill spins: fans push Smith over Babar

Speculation surrounding Babar Azam’s future at Peshawar Zalmi has intensified ahead of PSL 2026, with social media chatter and franchise-watch accounts hinting at a possible shake-up that could see the Pakistan star released and Steven Smith handed the captaincy instead.

The debate gained traction on X (formerly Twitter), where several fans and analysts floated the idea of Zalmi reshaping their leadership group. One widely shared post called for the franchise to release Babar and appoint Smith as captain, while others suggested locking in overseas experience early amid growing competition for top international players ahead of the auction.

Franchise-tracking account T20 Franchise Rosters noted that Smith remains one of the most valuable options outside the elite overseas bracket, citing his form, leadership credentials, and the scarcity of reliable finishers in the current T20 market. The post suggested that pre-auction retention of such players could prove strategically sound for PSL teams in 2026.

The conversation comes in the wake of recent on-field tension between Babar and Smith during a Big Bash League match for the Sydney Sixers. Reports indicated Babar was visibly frustrated after Smith declined a single late in the innings to retain strike for the power surge – an over that Smith then dominated, smashing a BBL-record 32 runs. While Smith later downplayed the incident and said the pair had cleared the air, Babar’s reaction sparked wider debate about temperament, leadership dynamics, and team roles in high-pressure situations.

Former players largely defended Smith’s decision as tactical and praised his leadership, while some criticised Babar’s visible frustration, suggesting it could affect team culture. The episode has since been cited by commentators as an example of contrasting leadership styles – an angle now feeding into PSL-related speculation.

Babar has been the face of Peshawar Zalmi for several seasons, both as a marquee player and leader. However, with franchises increasingly prioritising flexible leadership, aggressive tactical decision-making, and overseas experience, questions are being raised about whether Zalmi may consider a bold reset ahead of the next cycle.

As of now, there has been no official confirmation from Peshawar Zalmi regarding Babar’s release or a potential captaincy change. Any decision is expected closer to the retention deadline and auction window. Still, the growing buzz suggests that PSL 2026 could bring one of the league’s most significant leadership shifts yet – one that may reshape Zalmi’s identity moving forward.