As the T20 World Cup approaches, Shaheen Afridi, captain of Pakistan’s cricket team, faces uncertainty regarding his leadership position.
Mohsin Naqvi, Chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), has been urged to consider changing the team’s captaincy due to Shaheen’s Lahore Qalandars’ poor performance in the ongoing ninth edition of the Pakistan Super League season (PSL 9), where the franchise finished at the bottom of the points table.
While the final decision rests with the PCB chief, there are differing opinions among stakeholders. Some argue that Shaheen, at 23 years old, lacks the maturity required for such a responsibility. However, others caution against altering leadership so close to the World Cup, fearing potential negative effects on the team’s performance.
If Shaheen is replaced, Mohammad Rizwan, a wicket-keeper batter, is likely to assume the role. Alternatively, former captain Babar Azam is also considered a candidate for the position.
Notably, Babar’s team, Peshawar Zalmi, currently leads the points table in PSL 9, while Rizwan’s Multan Sultans hold the second position.