Pakistan’s white-ball leadership is reportedly set for another reshuffle, as Mohammad Rizwan is likely to be removed from ODI captaincy, according to sources.
Pace spearhead Shaheen Shah Afridi is expected to be handed over the leadership role as part of the Pakistan Cricket Board’s (PCB) new strategic direction.
Rizwan’s ODI captaincy in jeopardy
Sources within the Board indicate that Mohammad Rizwan’s tenure as ODI captain may come to an end soon. The decision is being discussed at the highest level as selectors and management evaluate leadership performances across formats.
Shaheen Afridi expected to take over
According to insiders, Shaheen Shah Afridi has emerged as the top contender for the ODI captaincy. The young fast bowler, known for his aggressive style and leadership experience in T20 cricket, is expected to bring renewed energy and direction to Pakistan’s one-day side.
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Shaheen has previously captained Pakistan, earning praise for his tactical acumen and ability to inspire younger players.
Squad announcements expected next week
The Pakistan ODI and T20 squads are expected to be announced next week, sources confirmed, as the PCB's National Selection Committee has finalized the T20 squad for the upcoming series against South Africa.
The squad will mark the return of star batter Babar Azam to the shortest format, while fast bowler Naseem Shah, who has recovered from injury, is also set to make a comeback.
Key returns: Babar Azam, Naseem Shah back in action
Sources confirmed that Babar Azam will once again lead Pakistan’s batting lineup in the T20 series after being rested for earlier matches. His return is seen as a major boost to the team’s leadership and stability at the top order.
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Naseem Shah, who missed several international assignments due to injury, has been declared fully fit and will rejoin the pace attack. His inclusion strengthens Pakistan’s bowling department alongside Haris Rauf and Hasan Ali, both of whom have retained their spots.
Emerging players retained, underperformers dropped
Young talents Saim Ayub and Mohammad Haris have been retained in the T20 squad following their impressive performances in previous series. The selection committee reportedly views them as integral to Pakistan’s future T20 plans.
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However, the selectors have decided to drop Khushdil Shah and Hussain Talat, who have struggled to maintain consistency. Their omission opens the door for Irfan Niazi, a promising all-rounder, who is expected to make his T20 debut for Pakistan.
Bowling strength and team balance prioritised
According to insiders, the selection committee has prioritized balance and depth in the squad, ensuring a mix of experience and young energy.
With Haris Rauf and Hasan Ali expected to lead the pace attack and Naseem Shah adding variety, Pakistan’s bowling unit will be backed by an aggressive batting core led by Babar Azam, Saim Ayub, and Mohammad Haris.
PCB yet to finalise captain
Meanwhile, the PCB has said that the captain for the upcoming ODI series against South Africa has not yet been finalized.
According to a PCB spokesperson, head coach Mike Hesson has written a formal letter to the PCB chairman, recommending that a joint meeting be held to decide on the team’s leadership. The PCB chairman has forwarded the letter to the selection and advisory committees, the spokesperson added.
A meeting of both committees has been scheduled for Oct 20, during which a final decision regarding the ODI captain is expected to be made.
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