Shaheen Shah Afridi has been officially appointed as the captain of Pakistan’s men’s ODI team, replacing Mohammad Rizwan following the side’s inconsistent performances in recent white-ball series. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) announced the leadership change, as part of a broader restructuring ahead of the team’s 2026 ICC events. Afridi, 25, who already leads Pakistan in T20Is, will now helm the ODI side as well, making him one of the youngest cricketers to captain across formats for his country. The decision follows Pakistan’s disappointing Asia Cup 2025 campaign and a 3–2 ODI series loss to Australia, which highlighted strategic lapses and lack of bowling discipline. PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi stated that Afridi’s elevation reflects confidence in his “aggressive mindset, passion for the game, and leadership maturity.” Mohammad Rizwan, who led the team for less than a year, has been retained as vice-captain to ensure continuity and dressing-room balance. Former captains Wasim Akram and Misbah-ul-Haq praised the move, calling it a step toward developing a long-term leader for Pakistan’s next generation. Afridi is expected to make his ODI captaincy debut in the upcoming home series against South Africa in November 2025. #ShaheenAfridi #PakistanCricket #ODICaptain #MohammadRizwan
