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"Always a matter of pride": Shaheen Afridi focused on revival as Pakistan's ODI captain

Akshita Patel

Shaheen Afridi reflects on ODI captaincy [Source: @proudpctfan/X.com]Shaheen Afridi reflects on ODI captaincy [Source: @proudpctfan/X.com]

Pakistan’s left-arm pacer Shaheen Afridi is ready to start a new chapter in his career as the ODI captain. He spoke about his leadership goals and shed light on his past experience of being removed from the T20I captaincy.

Back in 2024, Shaheen was appointed as the T20I captain after Babar Azam’s exit. However, after just one series defeat against New Zealand, the pacer was sacked from captaincy.

Now, PCB has dropped Mohammad Rizwan to appoint Shaheen as captain of the ODI team.

Shaheen Afridi not distracted by ODI captaincy drama

Ahead of Pakistan’s upcoming three-match ODI series against South Africa in Faisalabad, Shaheen Afridi, talking to media, made it clear that he’s focusing on leading from the front rather than dwelling on the past.

"It is an honour for me to lead the country. Even as a player, wearing the national colours is always a matter of pride -- but now, as captain, there is an added sense of responsibility," Shaheen said.

Reflecting on his sacking as T20I captain last year, Afridi refused to blame anyone, saying administrative calls are beyond his control.

"Our job is to serve Pakistan cricket and fulfil 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 added.

That being said, the series against South Africa gives Shaheen Afridi a golden opportunity to reassert himself as both a bowler and a leader. 

Pakistan’s ODI form has dipped recently, with a home tri-series loss to New Zealand and an early exit from the Champions Trophy. 

Meanwhile, South Africa will field a second-string side, missing regular captain Temba Bavuma due to injury and resting key pacers Kagiso Rabada and Marco Jansen. 

The young Matthew Breetzke, who made a dream ODI debut with a 150, will lead the Proteas. Veteran wicket-keeper Quinton de Kock, who came out of retirement, is also set to return.