Shaheen Shah Afridi Appointed as Pakistan’s New ODI Captain | Full List of Pakistan’s ODI Captains & Expert analysis | usman on cricket
In a major shake-up just weeks before Pakistan’s home ODI series against South Africa, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has officially appointed Shaheen Shah Afridi as the new ODI captain, replacing Mohammad Rizwan.
The announcement came on October 20, 2025, and immediately became one of the most discussed topics in Pakistan cricket.
While many fans see this as a bold move towards youth and aggression, others fear it might add unnecessary pressure on the 25-year-old pacer. Let’s break down in this article what happened, why this change took place, and what it means for Pakistan cricket’s future and follow www.usmanoncricket.com for latest cricket news
What Happened?
The PCB announced Afridi’s appointment following a high-level meeting in Islamabad attended by:
- Head Coach: Mike Hesson
- Director High Performance: Aqib Javed
- Selection Committee Members
This decision comes ahead of the three-match ODI series against South Africa, set to begin in early November 2025. The timing surprised many fans, given that Rizwan had led the ODI side for just one year.
Why the Change Happened
Mohammad Rizwan, who became captain in October 2024, led Pakistan in 20 ODIs — winning 9 and losing 11.
Despite early promise, his tenure saw two major setbacks:
- Group Stage Exit – Pakistan crashed out early from the ICC Championship 2025, hosted on home soil.
- Historic Series Defeat – Pakistan lost 2–1 to West Indies, their first ODI series defeat in the Caribbean in 34 years.
Insiders also reported differences between Rizwan and the selection panel, though neither side confirmed them publicly.
The PCB, keen to rejuvenate the side with a younger, aggressive approach, has now turned to Shaheen Afridi, who has already proven his leadership in domestic cricket — particularly in the Pakistan Super League (PSL) with Lahore Qalandars, where he led the franchise to multiple titles.
Pros and Cons of Shaheen’s Appointment
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| A fast-bowling captain brings a refreshing mindset and tactical diversity to Pakistan’s ODI setup. | High injury risk and workload could affect both his bowling rhythm and leadership effectiveness. |
| At 25, Shaheen represents the new generation of Pakistani cricket leadership. | Limited captaincy experience at international level; short and mixed stint as T20I captain. |
| Proven domestic success with Lahore Qalandars (PSL titles in 2022 & 2023). | Frequent captaincy changes (third ODI captain in 12 months) might hurt team stability. |
Fans and Experts React
The cricket community is divided over this bold move:
Negative Reactions
- Many fans on social media called the decision “premature and risky,” fearing that Afridi’s form and fitness could be compromised.
- Critics argue that Rizwan’s removal was harsh, as he had shown promise and strong overseas wins in Australia and South Africa.
Positive Reactions
- Supporters highlight Shaheen’s aggressive mindset and never-say-die attitude, which could revitalize Pakistan’s white-ball cricket.
- Analysts like former cricketer Aqib Javed believe this marks “a brave, modern move” towards a more attacking approach.
Neutral/Concerned Voices
- Some experts criticized PCB’s instability: “Pakistan have had three ODI captains in 12 months — this reflects confusion more than clarity,” one ESPNcricinfo analyst noted.
In summary, the nation is cautiously optimistic — hopeful for renewal, yet worried about repeating past mistakes.
What’s Next for Shaheen Afridi?
Shaheen’s first assignment as ODI captain will be against South Africa (November 2025).
His captaincy will be closely monitored for:
- Tactical awareness and bowling management
- Fitness sustainability
- Team morale and strategic clarity
The PCB will assess whether Afridi’s leadership aligns with their long-term plan for the 2027 ODI World Cup — or if this is yet another short-term experiment.
Pakistan’s ODI Captains List (1973–2025)
| No. | Captain Name | Years Active as ODI Captain |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Intikhab Alam | 1973–1975 |
| 2 | Majid Khan | 1975–1976 |
| 3 | Asif Iqbal | 1976–1979 |
| 4 | Wasim Bari | 1977–1978 |
| 5 | Mushtaq Mohammad | 1978–1979 |
| 6 | Javed Miandad | 1980–1993 |
| 7 | Zaheer Abbas | 1981–1984 |
| 8 | Imran Khan | 1982–1992 |
| 9 | Wasim Akram | 1993–2000 |
| 10 | Saleem Malik | 1994–1995 |
| 11 | Rameez Raja | 1995–1997 |
| 12 | Aamer Sohail | 1997–1998 |
| 13 | Saeed Anwar | 1998–1999 |
| 14 | Moin Khan | 2000–2001 |
| 15 | Rashid Latif | 2001–2003 |
| 16 | Waqar Younis | 2001–2003 |
| 17 | Inzamam-ul-Haq | 2003–2007 |
| 18 | Younis Khan | 2005–2010 |
| 19 | Shoaib Malik | 2007–2019 (sporadic) |
| 20 | Misbah-ul-Haq | 2010–2015 |
| 21 | Shahid Afridi | 2010–2014 |
| 22 | Mohammad Hafeez | 2011–2014 |
| 23 | Sarfaraz Ahmed | 2017–2019 |
| 24 | Azhar Ali | 2015–2017 |
| 25 | Babar Azam | 2019–2024 |
| 26 | Shadab Khan (stand-in) | 2024 |
| 27 | Mohammad Rizwan | 2024–2025 |
| 28 | Shaheen Shah Afridi (Current) | 2025–Present |
Summary: A Brave Yet Risky Call
Pakistan’s ODI captaincy has once again entered a new era.
Shaheen Shah Afridi’s appointment reflects the PCB’s desire for young leadership and a fearless approach.
However, his fitness, consistency, and decision-making under pressure will define whether this move becomes a masterstroke or another misstep.
The world will be watching when Pakistan takes on South Africa next month — and whether Shaheen can deliver both wickets and wins.
FAQs – Shaheen Afridi’s ODI Captaincy
Who is Pakistan’s current ODI captain (2025)?
Shaheen Shah Afridi has been appointed as Pakistan’s ODI captain, replacing Mohammad Rizwan.
Why was Mohammad Rizwan removed as captain?
Due to inconsistent ODI results and Pakistan’s early ICC Championship 2025 exit.
Has Shaheen Afridi captained Pakistan before?
Yes, briefly in T20Is, though with mixed results. He’s had more success as Lahore Qalandars’ captain in the PSL.
What challenges does Shaheen face?
Managing his bowling workload, team strategy, and pressure of expectations.
Who were Pakistan’s most successful ODI captains?
Imran Khan, Wasim Akram, and Misbah-ul-Haq are among Pakistan’s most successful and respected ODI leaders.
When is Pakistan’s next ODI series?
The upcoming ODI series against South Africa begins in November 2025.
Will Shaheen lead Pakistan in the 2027 World Cup?
That depends on his performance and PCB’s long-term strategy.
How have fans reacted to his appointment?
Mixed — excitement about change but concern over frequent leadership instability.
Conclusion | The Road Ahead for Pakistan
Pakistan cricket once again stands at a crossroads.
With Shaheen Shah Afridi at the helm, the team has a chance to rebuild its white-ball identity — provided there’s patience and long-term vision.
Who’s your pick — Shaheen or Rizwan?
Share your thoughts in the comments below and join the discussion on UsmanOnCricket.com
