In a surprise move, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) announced on October 20 that Mohammad Rizwan would be replaced as ODI captain by fast bowler Shaheen Shah Afridi. Rizwan had only taken over the post in October, following Babar Azam‘s departure, making this the third change in ODI leadership in a year.
The 25-year-old will lead Pakistan in the forthcoming three-match One-Day International series against South Africa next month. The decision comes after Pakistan’s dismal performance in the 2025 Champions Trophy, where they came bottom in Group A behind India, New Zealand, and Bangladesh. Rizwan’s term did not produce the expected results, pushing the PCB to act quickly.
The board confirmed Shaheen Shah Afridi appointment following a meeting in Islamabad.
He is noted for his quick pace, and his leadership will be closely observed as Pakistan seeks stability and renewed momentum in the 50-over format ahead of future international commitments.
“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.
Pakistan’s ODI leadership continues to shift as Shaheen replaces Rizwan ahead of the upcoming three-match series against South Africa, scheduled for November 4, 6, and 8 in Faisalabad. Rizwan had a promising start as captain, leading Pakistan to a historic 2-1 series win in Australia, their first in 22 years, in November 2024.
He followed up with a dominant 3-0 whitewash of South Africa at home and a 2-1 victory in Zimbabwe. However, this year brought setbacks to the skipper. Pakistan lost the home tri-series final to New Zealand and exited the Champions Trophy in the group stage.
The low point came in the West Indies, where Pakistan suffered a 2-1 defeat, their first series loss there in 34 years. Shaheen, who briefly captained Pakistan in T20Is last year during a 4-1 series loss in New Zealand, now returns to leadership hoping to revive the team’s fortunes in the 50-over format.
India
