PCB sacks Mohammad Rizwan and appoints Shaheen Afridi as Pakistan’s new ODI captain

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) confirmed this on Monday evening Shaheen Afridi will lead the Pakistan men’s team in the upcoming three-match ODI series against South Africa, starting from November 4 in Faisalabad. The 25-year-old pacer replaces Muhammad Rizwanwho was captain of the team for only one year.

Shaheen Afridi takes over Pakistan ODI leadership

This marks Afridi’s second stint as 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, highlighting Afridi’s leadership potential and dedication.

In its official statement, the PCB said Afridi’s appointment is part of a “Unanimous decision aimed at reviving Pakistan’s white-ball format.” The board has also spoken out “complete 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 started in October 2024 after Babar Azam’s resignation, came to an abrupt end. Although Rizwan initially led Pakistan to series victories in Australia and South Africa, the team’s performance declined sharply in 2025.

The group stage exit at the ICC Champions Trophystaged 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 has formally recommended that Rizwan’s position be reviewed following the Champions Trophy debacle.

Rizwan’s personal form also dipped, with an average of 36.10 and a strike rate of 71 in ODIs in 2025. Despite the setback, PCB officials confirmed that he is still “an essential member of the ODI and Test squads” and will still be eligible for selection.

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Shaheen Afridi’s redemption and leadership opportunity

For Afridi, this appointment represents a second chance at leadership and an important moment of redemption. His first stint as captain in T20Is ended prematurely after a 4-1 defeat to New Zealand and the restoration of Babar as skipper.

However, Afridi’s performances on the field have remained exceptional. He was Pakistan’s leading ODI wicket-taker in 2024 and has maintained an impressive average of over two wickets per match since the 2023 World Cup. Known for his intensity and composure, Afridi commands deep respect in 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 and form the cornerstone of Pakistan’s 50-over revival strategy. However, the board emphasized that Rizwan remains an integral part of Pakistan’s cricket plans “continuity and stability” as the team transitions into a new era of leadership.

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