Shaheen Shah Afridi Named ODI Captain — PCB Replaces Mohammad Rizwan

After days of speculation and PCB committee discussions, Shaheen Shah Afridi named ODI captain, bringing new energy to Pakistan’s white-ball leadership.

The PCB committee has completed its review and Shaheen Shah Afridi named ODI captain after Mohammad Rizwan’s short tenure. The decision signals a fresh start for Pakistan’s one-day setup as the board looks to rebuild stability and form.

Afridi’s appointment quickly became the top story in cricket circles with fans and analysts watching how his leadership will shape the next phase of Pakistan cricket.

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PCB Announces Major Leadership Change

The PCB management, led by Chairman Mohsin Naqvi, confirmed the appointment following a review meeting in Islamabad attended by white-ball head coach Mike Hesson. The decision was aimed at rebuilding Pakistan’s ODI structure ahead of the upcoming series against South Africa in November.

“Shaheen brings aggression, commitment, and leadership qualities that can help Pakistan rebuild for future tournaments,” said a PCB official.

The 25-year-old fast bowler will lead Pakistan in the three-match ODI series starting November 4 in Faisalabad.

Rizwan, who had replaced Babar Azam in 2024, struggled to maintain consistency despite a few historic wins early in his tenure.

Pakistan’s ODI Captaincy: A Timeline of Rapid Changes (2023–2025)

Rizwan’s Short Tenure and Shaheen’s Return

Rizwan’s captaincy began with a bang as Pakistan won their first ODI series in Australia in 22 years, followed by clean sweeps against South Africa and Zimbabwe. However, defeats in the West Indies and a poor Champions Trophy campaign dented his record.

Shaheen’s return marks his second stint as a national captain, after briefly leading Pakistan in T20Is in 2024.

His appointment reflects PCB’s push for a young, aggressive mindset to stabilize Pakistan’s 50-over format.

Hardik Pandya’s New Chapter

Hardik Pandya is currently focusing on recovery after a quadriceps injury that kept him out of the Asia Cup final. India won that match against Pakistan in a thrilling finish but fans missed seeing Hardik in action. Now he is training and expected to make a strong return soon. His new relationship seems to have added a positive spark to his life and career.

Q1. Who is the new ODI captain of Pakistan? A: As of October 20, 2025, Shaheen Shah Afridi has been appointed as Pakistan’s ODI captain, replacing Mohammad Rizwan.

Q2. Why was Mohammad Rizwan removed as captain? A: Rizwan’s removal followed Pakistan’s poor performance in the 2025 Champions Trophy and a 2-1 series loss in the West Indies, prompting PCB to seek new leadership.

Q3. When will Shaheen Shah Afridi lead Pakistan in his first ODI series? A: Shaheen will begin his ODI captaincy in the three-match series against South Africa, starting November 4, 2025, in Faisalabad.

Upcoming Pakistan vs South Africa ODI Series

Pakistan will host South Africa for three ODIs on November 4, 6, and 8 in Faisalabad. The series will serve as Shaheen’s first test as captain and a key opportunity for Pakistan to climb in the ICC ODI rankings.

Fans are eager to see how his leadership reshapes team dynamics ahead of future tournaments.