🔥 Shaheen Afridi — Pakistan’s new ODI captain! Will lead team against South Africa this November 💚

LAHORE, October 20, 2025 — The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has officially announced that left-arm fast bowler Shaheen Shah Afridi will lead the national team in the upcoming One Day International (ODI) series against South Africa.

The three-match series is scheduled to be played at Iqbal Stadium, Faisalabad, from November 4 to 8, marking Afridi’s first assignment as ODI captain.

The PCB confirmed that Shaheen’s appointment was finalised during a high-level meeting in Islamabad, attended by head coach Mike Hesson, Director of High Performance Aqib Javed, and members of the national selection committee.

At just 25, Shaheen Afridi has already cemented his place as one of Pakistan’s premier fast bowlers. He has represented Pakistan in 66 ODIs and 92 T20Is, claiming an impressive 249 international wickets across formats. In 32 Test matches — excluding the ongoing second Test against South Africa in Rawalpindi — he has taken 120 wickets, showcasing his consistency and match-winning ability.

This will not be Afridi’s first leadership role; he previously captained Pakistan in five T20 Internationals against New Zealand in 2024, where he earned praise for his aggressive approach and on-field presence.

Shaheen’s elevation to ODI captaincy signals a new phase for Pakistan cricket as the team prepares to face South Africa on home soil, with fans hopeful for a strong performance under his dynamic leadership.