Cricket

Shaheen Afridi addresses Babar Azam's captaincy rumors as he prepares for the 2027 ODI World Cup, stating, "I am the captain for now."

  • Authored By: Sports Now
  • Updated Aug 11, 2026, 16:57 IST

Pakistan's ODI captain, Shaheen Shah Afridi, has given a clear answer regarding his future leadership for the upcoming ODI World Cup.

Shaheen Afridi addresses Babar Azam's captaincy rumors as he prepares for the 2027 ODI World Cup, stating, "I am the captain for now."

Shaheen Shah Afridi, the captain of Pakistan's One Day International (ODI) cricket team, has addressed speculation regarding his future leadership role, stating, “For now, I am the captain.” His remarks come amid ongoing discussions about the team's leadership dynamics, particularly with former captain Babar Azam potentially being considered for a return to a prominent leadership position across all formats. Afridi's captaincy, which began in October 2025, has faced scrutiny, especially given Pakistan's history of frequent leadership changes.

Focus on Upcoming Competitions

During a recent press conference alongside the captains of teams participating in the National Champions Cup, Afridi was questioned about the Pakistan Cricket Board's (PCB) plans for his captaincy leading up to the 2027 World Cup. He reiterated his current role, emphasizing his commitment to leading the team. Instead of lingering on the uncertainties surrounding his position, Afridi shifted his focus to the National Champions Cup, scheduled from August 11 to 18, which showcases some of the best domestic talent in Pakistan.

Afridi expressed optimism about the tournament's potential to enhance the team's depth ahead of the World Cup. He noted, “Whenever we go to a World Cup, we face a lot of injuries. In case there are any injuries before the World Cup, we will already have players available. The tournament pool will make it easier for us to find replacements.” He highlighted the significance of allowing players to perform in their preferred roles, which he believes will be crucial for the team's success.

Assessing Player Performance

The captain underscored that the performances during the National Champions Cup could have a direct impact on Pakistan's World Cup strategy. He stated, “All the players will try to put in good performances. As I said, our focus is on the World Cup. Besides individual performances, the performances and fitness of other players will also be assessed.” Afridi's leadership will be tested as the team prepares for a busy schedule leading up to the World Cup, including a tri-series and a five-match series in England.

As the cricketing landscape evolves, Afridi remains committed to his role, while the PCB continues to evaluate its leadership options. The upcoming domestic competition will serve as a critical platform for selectors to gauge the available talent and readiness of players, ensuring that the team is well-prepared for the challenges ahead.

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