Shaheen Shah Afridi Reveals Truth Behind Mohammad Rizwan's Captaincy Exit: ‘Took This Responsibility After...'

Rizwan had led Pakistan to a triumphant year, steering the team to series victories against South Africa and Australia. However, his captaincy came under intense scrutiny following Pakistan's disappointing exit from the Champions Trophy.

Following Rizwan's departure, Afridi was promptly appointed as Pakistan's ODI captain ahead of the home series against South Africa.

"I took this responsibility from the Pakistan Cricket Board after discussing the matter with Rizwan," Shaheen told the media.

ALSO READ: IND vs SA: Shubman Gill Polishes Skill In Gruelling Net Session, Engages In Crucial Discussion With Batting Coach Amidst Struggles

"Rizwan was the only person I had a discussion with and I asked him how he felt about me accepting the captaincy. Rizwan decided himself he would make way for me and that is how things worked out," said Shaheen.

The pacer was also appointed national T20 skipper in 2023 but was dismissed after just one series in New Zealand.

Shaheen had taken over as the T20I skipper after veteran batter Babar Azam relinquished following Pakistan's wretched campaign in the Cricket World Cup 2023. However, less than six months after the position, Shaheen was expelled from the post with Babar being reinstated as the captain.

The left-arm pacer had led in only one T20I series -- a five-match meeting against New Zealand away from home -- in this period.

Afridi revealed that Rizwan had promised his unwavering support and also stated that as a captain, he would provide unequivocal backing to Babar Azam and Rizwan.

"I have no ego and I talk to everyone for advice, even our former captains. I don't look at things that happened in the past. Everyone has to take responsibility if you want to improve as a team," the 25-year-old said.

ALSO READ: Sumit Nagal Seeks China's 'Urgent Help' Amid Visa Debacle, Australian Open Wildcard Hopes In Jeopardy

"You can't keep on saying Babar, Rizwan or Fakhar will do it, it is as a team we have to click and take responsibility," he added.

"As far as Rizwan is concerned, he is Pakistan's top-scorer in one-dayers since 2023. We are trying to back players who are not in form so that they can do well in future matches. Babar can falter in one or two matches but he is in good touch and I hope he will score a hundred soon," the captain added.

Click here to read article