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Shaheen Shah Afridi: New Appointment as Pakistan’s ODI Captain
Updated - 21-OCT-2025 6:4 IST
Shaheen Shah Afridi has been formally announced by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) as the new captain of the men's One-Day International (ODI) side. Before the three-match ODI series against the South African national cricket team starting on November 4, the announcement was made on October 20, 2025.
Why the Change?
Mohammad Rizwan, who had been captaining Pakistan in ODIs since October 2024, is replaced by Shaheen. Despite some early achievements, particularly series victories in Australia and South Africa, Pakistan's recent performance has declined dramatically, including a home series loss to the West Indies and a first-round exit at the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.
According to the PCB, the national selection committee in Islamabad, White-ball coach Mike Hesson, and High Performance Director Aqib Javed met and made the decision.
It also represents Pakistan's third change in ODI captaincy in as many months, which is indicative of the team's continuous quest for stability at the top.
What It Means for Shaheen
- Second term as captain: In early 2024, the 25-year-old left-handed bowler commanded Pakistan in five Twenty20 Internationals (against New Zealand). However, that effort resulted in a 4-1 loss, and he was replaced shortly after.
- Excellent performance statistics: He has taken 131 wickets at an average of 24.28 in 66 ODI matches, establishing himself as a reliable strike bowler and a vital member of Pakistan's bowling attack.
- Expectations for leadership: According to the PCB, this action is a component of a larger plan to reconstruct Pakistan's white-ball infrastructure in advance of next international competitions, such as the 2027 World Cup.
Challenges
- Workload and role balance: Shaheen's workload and leadership responsibilities are greatly increased as captain, which presents a dilemma given his status as a frontline fast bowler.
- Issues about stability: In recent years, Pakistan has experienced several changes in captaincy. It's unclear if this move will give the side the consistency they require.
- Immediate pressure: The South Africa series will be his first ODI captaincy assignment, and the outcome there will determine the tone of his tenure.