Shaheen Shah Afridi Appointed New ODI Captain of Pakistan Men’s Team
Karachi, October 21 2025 — In a major shake-up ahead of the home series against South Africa national cricket team, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has named fast-bowler Shaheen Shah Afridi as the new captain of Pakistan’s One Day International (ODI) side.
What’s Changed
Afridi has been appointed for the upcoming three-match ODI series versus South Africa, a role that represents his first full assignment as Pakistan's ODI skipper.
The move represents Pakistan’s third change in ODI leadership in the last 12-months, underlining a period of transition for Pakistan’s white-ball team.
The change reportedly follows dissatisfaction with the previous captain Mohammad Rizwan’s results in the format, and aligns with PCB’s desire for a fresh leadership direction.
Why Afridi?
At 25 years old, Afridi has already established himself as one of Pakistan’s most potent pace bowlers, and has captained his franchise, the Lahore Qalandars (in the Pakistan Super League), to multiple titles — demonstrating leadership potential.
By naming a fast bowler as captain, PCB may be signalling a shift towards a new core of leadership built around youth and fresh energy. Sources suggest this is seen as the beginning of a longer-term vision rather than simply a stop-gap.
Challenges Ahead
With this appointment, Afridi inherits a side that has struggled for consistent performances in ODIs. He now faces the task of stabilising leadership, building team identity and delivering results.
Balancing his role as strike bowler with that of captain will be a crucial test — leading from the front with the new ball and also managing tactical decisions.
Questions remain over how the shift will impact senior players and team dynamics. Reshuffling leadership often causes ripples both on and off the field.
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What’s Next
Pakistan will immediately test this leadership change in the home ODI series against South Africa. Performance in these matches may set the tone for Afridi’s tenure.
With the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2027 on the horizon, this appointment could be seen as part of Pakistan’s longer-term roadmap for one-day cricket.
