Rizwan Made Way For Me, Talked Before Becoming Captain: Shaheen Afridi

Shaheen Shah Afridi has clarified that he spoke with Mohammad Rizwan before taking over as Pakistan’s ODI captain, saying the leadership change was made with mutual understanding. Afridi, who recently replaced Rizwan as captain, said the wicketkeeper-batter stepped down willingly and advised him to accept the responsibility.

The Pakistan Cricket Board had recently announced Afridi as the new ODI captain after Rizwan’s tenure ended. The 24-year-old left-arm pacer led the side to a 2–1 series win over South Africa in his first assignment as skipper.

Speaking to reporters on Monday, Afridi said he first approached Rizwan to discuss the matter before making a decision. He explained that he wanted to ensure complete clarity between them. Afridi said he asked Rizwan directly whether he was comfortable with him taking over the role, to which Rizwan responded positively.

“I had a discussion with Rizwan bhai. I asked him what he thought about this decision,” Afridi said, as quoted by The Indian Express. 

“He said he was happy to step aside and that I should take on the responsibility. It was his own decision. There was no issue between us.”

Afridi added that there was no misunderstanding or internal conflict in the process, saying he only agreed to become captain after Rizwan’s consent. 

“I didn’t want anyone to think I had gone behind someone’s back,” he said. “I wanted to make sure he knew and was fine with it. Everything happened with mutual respect.”

Afridi said the smooth communication with Rizwan reflected the unity within the squad. “We are all part of one family,” he said. “Whoever leads, the rest support him fully. That’s how a team should function.”

He added that his focus now is on building consistency and ensuring Pakistan plays positive cricket under his leadership. 

“I’ll try to give my best and lead from the front,” Afridi said. “Our goal is to win matches and keep improving as a team.”