In a major shake-up ahead of Pakistan’s three-match ODI series against South Africa from November 4–8 at Faisalabad’s Iqbal Stadium, pacer Shaheen Shah Afridi has been appointed as the new one-day international (ODI) captain, replacing wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) announced on Monday.
The PCB confirmed that Shaheen’s appointment was finalised following a meeting held in Islamabad, attended by white-ball head coach Mike Hesson, Director High Performance Aqib Javed, and members of the selection committee.
“Shaheen’s appointment for the upcoming series was finalised today following a meeting held in Islamabad, which was attended by white-ball head coach Mike Hesson, Director High Performance Aqib Javed and members of the selection committee,” the PCB said in a short release.
The 25-year-old left-arm pacer brings a strong record to the leadership role, having played 66 ODIs and 92 T20Is with a combined 249 wickets, along with 120 wickets in 32 Tests (excluding the ongoing second Test against South Africa in Rawalpindi).
Rizwan, in his 20 ODIs as captain, led Pakistan to nine wins and 11 defeats, maintaining a 45% winning percentage.
PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi’s administration has faced criticism for frequent captaincy changes — having earlier removed Shaheen in 2024, reinstated Babar Azam, and later appointed Rizwan only months ago.
Earlier this year, Shaheen had a brief stint as captain, leading Pakistan in a five-match T20I home series against New Zealand, which ended in a 2–2 draw.
The latest move signals a strategic shift as Pakistan prepares for the 2027 World Cup, likely giving Shaheen a longer run as leader in the build-up to the tournament. With the series against South Africa just weeks away, all eyes will now be on how Shaheen transitions into his new role — leading the side in the 50-over format while continuing to shoulder his frontline bowling responsibilities.
—IANS