Shaheen Afridi Steps Up as New ODI Captain Amid Controversial Changes

In a significant shift within Pakistan's cricket hierarchy, Shaheen Shah Afridi will take over from Muhammad Rizwan as the new ODI captain, as announced by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB). The replacement will be effective for the three-match series against South Africa next month.

While the PCB has not provided specific reasons for the leadership change, it's widely believed that head coach Mike Hesson played a critical role in this decision. The decision emerged from a recent meeting involving national selectors, advisory board members, and Hesson himself.

The move has opened the floodgates for speculation. Discussions suggest unease over Rizwan's religious discourse within the team, drawing comparisons to former captain Inzamam-ul-Haq. The decision has also involved input from notable voices like Aaqib Javed, Sarfaraz Ahmed, and Misbah-ul-Haq.