Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) appoints Shaheen Afridi to replace Mohammad Rizwan as ODI captain
In a shocking upheaval in Pakistan cricket, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has named left-arm fast bowler Shaheen Afridi as the new captain of the national ODI squad, replacing Mohammad Rizwan. The decision, which was announced on October 20, 2025, is a decisive step by the PCB as the team gears up for a series that will determine the course of the future against South Africa, scheduled in Faisalabad from **November 4 to 8**.
At only 25, Shaheen Afridi now assumes one of the most questioned leadership positions in global cricket, leading an ODI team looking for steadiness and refreshed purpose in the approach to the 2027 World Cup.
Inside the Decision: How Rizwan Lost His Role
The step was taken after mounting differences between Mohammad Rizwan and head coach Mike Hesson. The wicketkeeper-batsman is alleged to have wanted more control over selection into the squad, something that conflicted with the powers given to the coaching and selection committees.
At a decisive meeting in Islamabad, where Hesson, High Performance Director Aqib Javed, and members of the selection panel were present, Rizwan’s future as a captain came under scrutiny. Eventually, there was consensus on the appointment of Shaheen Afridi as the new captain for ODIs.
Despite the fact that Rizwan guided Pakistan to impressive wins against Australia, Zimbabwe, and South Africa last season, his captaincy was under scrutiny after Pakistan’s poor exit from the ICC Champions Trophy this year when the team could not move beyond the group stage. The subsequent losses against New Zealand and the West Indies further eroded his position.
PCB’s Consultations and Future Vision
The PCB is said to have taken advice from past national captains Misbah-ul-Haq and Sarfaraz Ahmed before making the decision. Sources indicate that Hesson’s long-term plan involves grooming an aggressive young leadership combination for the 2027 World Cup.
“Shaheen embodies passion, aggression, and a fearless approach that’s the kind of direction we wish Pakistan cricket to head in,” said a PCB official off the record.
Shaheen Afridi was appointed after his short stint as Pakistan’s captain in five T20 internationals against New Zealand in 2024. His steady all-round performance in every format—66 ODIs, 92 T20Is, and 32 Tests with an aggregate of 249 international wickets—makes him one of Pakistan’s most reliable and charismatic cricketers.
A New Era for Pakistan Cricket
While Rizwan’s removal may sting his supporters, many view this transition as a fresh start for Pakistan cricket. Afridi’s energy, tactical maturity, and rapport with younger players could bring a new dimension to the team’s spirit and strategy.
The upcoming South Africa series will serve as Shaheen Afridi’s first real test as ODI captain. Cricket fans across Pakistan will be watching closely to see how he manages the dual burden of bowling spearhead and team leader—a challenge that has tested even the best in the game.
Meanwhile, Salman Ali Agha has quietly replaced Rizwan as the T20 captain, further signaling a broader restructuring of leadership across formats.
As Pakistan braces for a new chapter under Shaheen’s leadership, questions remain about how the team will adapt to these changes. Can Afridi’s aggressive style translate into consistent victories? Will Rizwan continue to contribute effectively as a player despite the setback?
One thing is sure: the PCB’s move has set the stage for a thrilling and unpredictable chapter in Pakistan’s cricketing odyssey—one marked by youth, ambition, and a thirst for redemption.
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