Pakistan has a new captain for its One Day International (ODI) squad, with star bowler Shaheen Afridi stepping into the role previously held by Mohammad Rizwan. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) announced the change after a meeting with selectors and head coach Mike Hesson. This leadership transition occurs on the back of a disappointing run for the team, which managed just one ODI victory in their last nine games. The struggles were highlighted by a complete lack of success in the home Champions Trophy. Although Mohammad Rizwan’s initial captaincy saw Pakistan achieve notable overseas series wins in Australia, Zimbabwe, and South Africa, a significant dip in form followed. This slump persisted through the Champions Trophy, and subsequent series against New Zealand and the West Indies, prompting the coaching and selection panel to make a change. Speculation about Rizwan’s future as captain intensified when the PCB delayed an official confirmation, which was finally settled with Afridi’s naming. Afridi himself faced a similar situation with his brief T20I captaincy, which ended in a series loss to New Zealand. Despite this, there is considerable optimism that Afridi will lead the ODI side to greater success. His impressive record as Pakistan’s top ODI wicket-taker last year is a strong indicator of his potential. The board and coaching staff anticipate that this leadership opportunity will further motivate the talented pacer. The upcoming three-match ODI series against South Africa will serve as Shaheen Afridi’s debut as the national ODI captain.
