Web Desk, October 18, 2025
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has clarified that no final decision has been made regarding the captain for the national ODI team ahead of the upcoming series against South Africa.
PCB spokesperson stated that no decision has been taken yet on the leadership of the Pakistan ODI team. Head coach Mike Hesson has requested the chairman to convene a joint meeting of the selection committee and the advisory committee.
The meeting between the selection committee and advisory committee is scheduled for October 20, where the ODI captain will be decided.
Prior to this, reports had emerged suggesting that Mohammad Rizwan might be removed from the ODI captaincy.
A private TV channel claimed that Shaheen Afridi could replace Mohammad Rizwan as the ODI team captain. Sources indicate that contenders include former captain Babar Azam, current T20I skipper Salman Ali Agha, and pacer Shaheen Shah Afridi, with the latter viewed as the frontrunner due to his tactical acumen and prior leadership experience.
According to sources, the national selection commission has largely finalized the national T20 squad, with an announcement expected soon. Babar Azam’s return to the squad is highly likely.
The private TV channel reported that Saim Ayub and Mohammad Haris, who underperformed in the Asia Cup, have been retained in the team.
Hasan Ali and Haris Rauf will also be included in the squad, with expectations high for fast bowler Naseem Shah’s return. Decisions have been made to drop Hussain Talat and Khushdil Shah from the team.
Young all-rounder Irfan Niazi is likely to make a comeback to the team, though securing a spot as wicketkeeper-batter over Mohammad Rizwan in the T20 squad appears challenging.
