Pakistan’s left-arm pace bowler Shaheen Afridi is poised to embark on a new journey as the captain of the ODI team. Following a tumultuous experience with the T20I captaincy, where he was dismissed after a single series defeat against New Zealand in 2024, Afridi is now eager to embrace the responsibilities that come with leading the national side in one-day cricket.
The Pakistan Cricket Board’s decision to drop Mohammad Rizwan in favor of Afridi for the ODI captaincy reflects a strategic shift in leadership. Speaking to the media ahead of the three-match ODI series against South Africa in Faisalabad, Afridi emphasized his focus on the present and his commitment to leading the team effectively. He expressed, “It is an honour for me to lead the country. Even as a player, wearing the national colors is always a matter of pride—but now, as captain, there is an added sense of responsibility.”
Afridi’s previous experience as T20I captain, albeit brief, has taught him valuable lessons in leadership. He refrained from placing blame for his removal, acknowledging that administrative decisions are out of the players’ hands. “Our job is to serve Pakistan cricket and fulfill whatever role we’re given. Leadership appointments are the management’s decisions, and we respect that. My focus right now is on improving our one-day cricket and leading the team from the front,” he stated.
This upcoming series against South Africa presents a significant opportunity for Afridi to reinforce his position as both a bowler and a captain. Pakistan’s ODI performance has faced challenges recently, highlighted by a home tri-series defeat against New Zealand and an early exit from the Champions Trophy.
On the other hand, South Africa will be fielding a second-string side for this series, missing key players like regular captain Temba Bavuma due to injury and resting notable pacers Kagiso Rabada and Marco Jansen. The young Matthew Breetzke, fresh off a sensational ODI debut scoring 150, will lead the South African team, while veteran wicket-keeper Quinton de Kock is making his return from retirement.
With shifting dynamics both on and off the field, Afridi’s leadership could be just what the team needs to rekindle their ODI form and restore confidence going forward. The stage is set for an intriguing showdown as both teams aim to make a statement in this important series.