In a major move, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) announced on October 20 that Mohammad Rizwan has been removed as Pakistan’s ODI captain. Fast bowler Shaheen Shah Afridi has been named as his replacement.
Rizwan took over the role in October last year after Babar Azam stepped down. This is now the third ODI captaincy change for Pakistan within just one year.
Shaheen to Lead in South Africa Series
The 25-year-old left-arm pacer will lead Pakistan in the upcoming three-match ODI series against South Africa next month. The decision comes after Pakistan’s poor show in the 2025 Champions Trophy, where they finished last in Group A behind India, New Zealand, and Bangladesh.
Rizwan’s time as captain started well but did not bring consistent results. The PCB decided to act quickly after the disappointing tournament.
The board confirmed Shaheen’s appointment after a meeting held in Islamabad. He is known for his fiery pace and leadership on the field. Fans will be watching closely as Pakistan looks for stability and renewed energy in the 50-over format.
“A meeting of the selection committee, also attended by Pakistan’s white-ball head coach Mike Hesson, decided that Shaheen will lead Pakistan’s ODI side against South Africa,” said a PCB release as quoted by NDTV Sports.
The three ODIs will take place in Faisalabad on November 4, 6, and 8.
Rizwan had some big achievements as captain. He led Pakistan to a historic 2-1 series win in Australia in November 2024 their first there in 22 years. He also guided them to a 3-0 whitewash against South Africa at home and a 2-1 victory in Zimbabwe.
But this year saw Pakistan struggle. They lost the home tri-series final to New Zealand and failed to reach the knockout stage in the Champions Trophy. The worst moment came during the West Indies tour, where Pakistan lost a series 2-1 their first defeat there in 34 years.
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Shaheen, who briefly led Pakistan in T20Is last year, now returns to captaincy. He will aim to bring back confidence and success to Pakistan’s ODI team.
