Shaheen Afridi Addresses Pakistan ODI Captaincy Ahead of 2027 WC
During a press conference ahead of the National Champions Cup 2026, Pakistani bowler Shaheen Shah Afridi answered queries about his future as the country’s ODI captain. The competition occurred from August 11 to 18, with four teams competing in seven 50-over matches. Afridi will skipper Pakistan to gold in the competition.
According Pakistani reports, Babar Azam accepted the Test leadership with guarantees from selectors about a potential all-format position, sparking speculation over Afridi’s captaincy.
Two selectors allegedly informed Babar that excellent performances in the next two-Test series against the West Indies and a three-Test tour of England would qualify him for the all-format captaincy. Former Pakistan batsman Basit Ali predicts that Babar would captain Pakistan in the 2027 ODI World Cup.
What Shaheen stated about his captaincy status.
Contrary to reports, Pakistan’s current ODI captain responded strongly.
Since replacing Mohammad Rizwan in October 2025, Afridi has captained Pakistan in 11 One-Day Internationals (ODIs). His record includes seven victories in 11 matches. Pakistan just won a home series against Australia under his leadership.
The National Champions Cup was strategically important for Pakistan’s World Cup preparations. Afridi added that the competition would help to increase depth for the 2027 World Cup, which will be staged in South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Namibia. Pakistan suffers frequent injuries during World Cups, and the tournament pool would assist in identifying alternative choices if necessary.
Developing depth for the 2027 World Cup.
Instead of worrying about his status, Afridi focused on the National Champions Cup, which runs from August 11 to 18 and features some of Pakistan’s best domestic players. The left-arm bowler believes the competition will be essential in developing Pakistan’s squad depth ahead of the World Cup.
