PCB Confirms Major Change in Pakistan ODI Leadership
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has announced Shaheen Afridi as the new Pakistan ODI captain, replacing Mohammad Rizwan. The decision came after a meeting between head coach Mike Hesson and the national selection committee in Islamabad. Both players are currently part of the ongoing Rawalpindi Test against South Africa.
Mohammad Rizwan Loses Captaincy After Mixed Results
Rizwan’s exit was expected when the PCB avoided confirming his future as captain earlier in the week. While the board did not mention him directly in the statement, insiders revealed that senior officials agreed a change was necessary. During his tenure, Rizwan led Pakistan to ODI series wins in South Africa and Australia in 2024. However, the recent home Champions Trophy exit and inconsistent results weakened his position.
Although removed from leadership, Rizwan’s batting form has stayed solid. He averages nearly 42 in ODIs and remains one of Pakistan’s most reliable middle-order players. Yet the board wanted a fresh approach for the upcoming white-ball season.
𝐒𝐡𝐚𝐡𝐞𝐞𝐧 𝐒𝐡𝐚𝐡 𝐀𝐟𝐫𝐢𝐝𝐢 𝐧𝐚𝐦𝐞𝐝 𝐏𝐚𝐤𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐧’𝐬 𝐧𝐞𝐰 𝐎𝐃𝐈 𝐜𝐚𝐩𝐭𝐚𝐢𝐧! 🇵🇰🔥
— wicketbuzz (@wicketbuzz) October 20, 2025
He takes over from Mohammad Rizwan ahead of the upcoming home series vs South Africa. #ShaheenAfridi #PakistanCricket #ODICaptain #PAKvSA pic.twitter.com/vcpgnlGFFk
Shaheen Afridi Returns With Renewed Confidence
Shaheen Afridi’s return as Pakistan ODI captain follows his earlier T20I stint in January 2024, which ended after a 4-1 series defeat to New Zealand. Since then, he has focused on improving his rhythm and consistency. His performances have been remarkable — no fast bowler from a Full Member nation has taken more ODI wickets since the 2023 World Cup. His 45 wickets came at an impressive average, proving his match-winning potential.
Pakistan Set for South Africa ODI Series Under Afridi
Afridi’s first challenge as Pakistan ODI captain will be the three-match series against South Africa in Faisalabad next month. The PCB expects him to bring aggression, energy, and clarity to the squad. With form on his side, Afridi aims to rebuild confidence in a team eager to return to winning ways.
