PCB sack Mohammad Rizwan, appoint Shaheen Afridi as Pakistan’s new ODI captain

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) confirmed on Monday night that Shaheen Afridi will lead Pakistan men’s team in the upcoming three-match ODI series against South Africa, beginning November 4 in Faisalabad. The 25-year-old pacer replaces Mohammad Rizwan, who captained the side for just one year.

Shaheen Afridi takes over Pakistan’s ODI leadership

This marks Afridi’s second stint as a white-ball captain, following his brief tenure as T20I skipper in early 2024. PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi, head coach Mike Hesson, and the national selectors unanimously approved the decision, emphasizing Afridi’s leadership potential and commitment.

In its official statement, the PCB said Afridi’s appointment is part of a “unanimous decision aimed at reinvigorating Pakistan’s white-ball setup.” The board also expressed “full confidence in Shaheen’s leadership qualities and his ability to inspire the next generation of players.”

Mohammad Rizwan’s short-lived captaincy ends

Rizwan’s ODI captaincy, which began in October 2024 after Babar Azam’s resignation, has come to an abrupt end. Although Rizwan initially guided Pakistan to series wins in Australia and South Africa, the team’s performance declined sharply in 2025.

The group-stage exit at the ICC Champions Trophy, hosted in Pakistan, followed by a 3-0 ODI series loss to the West Indies, intensified scrutiny on Rizwan’s leadership. According to reports, head coach Mike Hesson formally recommended a review of Rizwan’s position after the Champions Trophy debacle.

Rizwan’s personal form also dipped, averaging 36.10 with a strike rate of 71 in ODIs during 2025. Despite the setback, PCB officials confirmed that he remains “a vital member of the ODI and Test squads” and will continue to be considered for selection.

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Shaheen Afridi’s redemption and leadership opportunity

For Afridi, this appointment represents a second chance at leadership and a significant moment of redemption. His first captaincy stint in T20Is ended prematurely following a 4-1 defeat to New Zealand and Babar’s reinstatement as skipper.

However, Afridi’s on-field performance has remained exceptional. He was Pakistan’s leading ODI wicket-taker in 2024, maintaining an impressive average of over two wickets per game since the 2023 World Cup. Known for his intensity and composure, Afridi commands deep respect within the dressing room, often described by teammates as a natural leader.

The PCB believes his aggressive yet balanced approach will complement Hesson’s tactical expertise, forming the cornerstone of Pakistan’s 50-over revival strategy. The board, however, emphasized that Rizwan remains an integral part of Pakistan’s cricketing plans, ensuring “continuity and stability” as the team transitions into a new leadership era.

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