Shaheen Afridi Reveals Why He Took Pakistan ODI Captaincy: Turmoil over the captaincy is nothing new in the Pakistan cricket team. Following Babar Azam’s resignation, when fast bowler Shaheen Shah Afridi was given the reins of the ODI team, many questions arose. Now, Shaheen himself has revealed why he accepted the responsibility and what role his predecessor, legendary wicketkeeper-batsman Mohammad Rizwan, played in it.
Here is a detailed analysis of this entire development and Shaheen’s leadership strategy.
Big claim to accept the captaincy: Rizwan paved the way
Shaheen Shah Afridi appeared before the media and clarified that he did not take the captaincy on his own. He claims that he discussed the responsibility extensively with Mohammad Rizwan before taking it on.
Shaheen said, “Rizwan was the only person I discussed it with, and I asked him how he felt about me accepting the captaincy. Rizwan himself decided to make way for me, and that’s how things worked out.”
This statement reflects the synergy within the Pakistani team, where the team’s interests were prioritized over personal ambition. Rizwan, who was considered a strong contender for the captaincy, made the crucial decision to step down for the young Shaheen.
Dismissal from T20 captaincy, and now return
Shaheen’s appointment is also in the news because he was appointed T20I captain after Babar Azam resigned following the team’s poor performance in the 2023 Cricket World Cup. However, this tenure was very short:
- Previous tenure: He was removed from captaincy after just one T20I series in New Zealand.
- Current change: Babar Azam was once again made captain after his removal, which raised questions about Shaheen’s leadership.
Shaheen said that he does not dwell on past events and is solely focused on improving the team. This move shows that he is ready for a fresh start, leaving past disappointments behind.
Shaheen’s leadership policy
Shaheen’s captaincy style is expected to be very collaborative. He has made it clear that he will fully support the team’s experienced players, especially his former captains.
- Guaranteed support: Shaheen said he has Rizwan’s full support and will also support Babar and Rizwan as captains.
- Willing to take advice: He said, “I have no ego and am ready to take advice from everyone, including my former captains.”
- Collective responsibility: He believes that for the team to progress, everyone must take responsibility, not just rely on the top players.
2027 World Cup is the goal: Long-term plan
Shaheen Afridi has not been given a specific timeframe for captaincy by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), but the young fast bowler has big goals.
- Big goal: He has expressed his desire to lead the Pakistan team in the 2027 World Cup.
- PCB’s confidence: Giving him the reins of the ODI team indicates that the PCB views him as a long-term leader.
Shaheen’s forthrightness and Rizwan’s resignation signal a positive change in Pakistani cricket. It remains to be seen whether this new leadership duo can successfully prepare the team for the 2027 World Cup.
Also Read: Hashim Amla Picks His All-Time Best ODI 11, 3 Indians included
