The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has officially appointed fast bowler Shaheen Shah Afridi as the new captain of Pakistan’s men’s One-Day International (ODI) side. The announcement came on October 20, 2025, ahead of the upcoming three-match series against South Africa national cricket team.
Shaheen replaces wicket-keeper batter Mohammad Rizwan, who led the white-ball team during the recent ICC Champions Trophy campaign and subsequent series losses in New Zealand and the West Indies. Rizwan’s tenure began with promise, including series wins in South Africa, Australia, and Zimbabwe, but recent setbacks prompted the PCB to make a change.
At just 25 years old, Shaheen’s new role marks his second stint in national team leadership. He previously captained Pakistan in a brief spell of five T20Is against New Zealand in late 2023 before being replaced. His leadership of his Pakistan Super League side, Lahore Qalandars, and strong domestic performances made him the preferred choice as head coach. Mike Hesson and other selectors sought a longer-term captain for the white-ball team.
To date, Shaheen has represented Pakistan in 66 ODIs and 92 T20Is, taking a combined 249 wickets, and has claimed 120 wickets in 32 Test matches (excluding the ongoing series vs South Africa). The PCB’s decision reflects a shift towards youth, pace-led leadership, and continuity as Pakistan prepares for the 2027 World Cup.
