In a major development for Pakistan cricket, Shaheen Shah Afridi has been appointed as the new captain of the national One Day International (ODI) team. The announcement marks a fresh chapter for the team, signaling a move toward youth, energy, and renewed focus ahead of a crucial stretch of fixtures leading to the 2027 World Cup. The decision was made following internal discussions among the Pakistan Cricket Board’s top officials, selectors, and coaching staff. Afridi will take over the leadership duties from Mohammad Rizwan, whose tenure as ODI captain has come to an end.
At just 25 years old, Shaheen Afridi has already carved his name among Pakistan’s most influential cricketers. Since making his international debut in 2018, he has become the spearhead of Pakistan’s bowling attack, known for his deadly swing, aggression, and match-winning spells. In ODIs, Afridi has taken over 130 wickets, often providing Pakistan with crucial early breakthroughs. His elevation to the captaincy reflects not only his on-field brilliance but also the leadership potential he has displayed in domestic and franchise cricket.
Afridi’s appointment comes at a time when Pakistan’s ODI side has been searching for consistency. After the World Cup disappointment and an underwhelming Champions Trophy campaign at home, the team has struggled to find its rhythm in both batting and bowling departments. The leadership change is seen as an attempt to bring renewed motivation and direction to a talented but underperforming side. The PCB hopes that Shaheen’s passion and fearlessness will inspire the dressing room and restore the aggressive mindset Pakistan was once known for.
For Mohammad Rizwan, the end of his ODI captaincy marks a bittersweet moment. He led the team through a period of transition and enjoyed some notable wins, including series victories against Australia and South Africa. However, a recent dip in team results, combined with inconsistent batting performances, prompted the board to make a leadership change. Despite stepping down, Rizwan remains an integral part of Pakistan’s ODI and T20I setup, and his experience will be crucial as the new captain settles into his role.
Shaheen Afridi’s leadership credentials are not untested. As captain of the Lahore Qalandars in the Pakistan Super League (PSL), he guided the team to back-to-back titles, earning praise for his calm demeanor and tactical awareness. His ability to lead from the front, often delivering decisive bowling performances under pressure, has made him a natural choice to take charge of the national team. Now, the challenge is to replicate that success on the international stage, where expectations are far higher and the scrutiny is relentless.
The new skipper’s first assignment will be the upcoming three-match ODI series against South Africa. The series will serve as an early test of his leadership skills and his ability to balance personal performance with team management. Afridi’s task will involve not only strategic decision-making on the field but also motivating a squad that has often struggled with inconsistency and mental resilience.
For Pakistan fans, this announcement brings hope and excitement. The team has long been searching for a young, bold leader who can bring stability and vision to their white-ball cricket. Shaheen Afridi’s appointment symbolizes a generational shift — one that blends raw energy with responsibility. As Pakistan prepares for its next international assignment, the nation will be watching closely to see if Afridi can lead them into a new era of success and self-belief. The coming months will reveal whether the left-arm pacer can truly deliver on the immense promise he has shown, now not just with the ball, but as the captain of Pakistan cricket.