Shaheen Afridi gives cautious reply on Pakistan captaincy

Pakistan ODI captain Shaheen Shah Afridi has avoided giving a long-term commitment about his leadership

Pakistan ODI captain Shaheen Shah Afridi has avoided giving a long-term commitment about his leadership ahead of the 2027 ICC World Cup, saying that he remains captain “for now”.

Speaking at a joint press conference with the captains of the teams participating in the National Champions Cup, Shaheen was asked whether he had received assurances that he would continue leading Pakistan until the World Cup.

His response was brief. “For now, I am the captain,” he said.

The left-arm fast bowler also stressed the importance of the Champions Cup in preparing Pakistan for the global tournament. He said the competition would help the national team build a wider pool of players and identify suitable replacements in case of injuries.

Shaheen pointed out that injuries have frequently affected Pakistan’s World Cup campaigns. He said having additional players ready would make it easier for the team management to deal with any fitness concerns before the 2027 tournament.

He added that the Champions Cup would allow players to perform in their preferred positions while competing against strong domestic opposition.

According to Shaheen, the tournament will be important not only for individual players but also for assessing the overall strength and fitness of the national squad. He said the performances of players during the competition would help selectors identify those capable of contributing to Pakistan’s World Cup plans.

“Our focus is on the World Cup,” Shaheen said, stressing that consistent performances and fitness would be key factors in selection.

The National Champions Cup is scheduled to begin on Tuesday at Multan Cricket Stadium. Four teams will participate in the competition: Pakistan Greens, Pakistan Whites, Pakistan Blues and Pakistan Gold.

Each team will face the others once during the league stage. The top two sides will qualify for the final, which is scheduled for August 18.

The tournament’s trophy unveiling ceremony was held earlier, with the captains of all four teams attending the event.

Shaheen Shah Afridi is leading Pakistan Gold, while Sahibzada Farhan is captaining Pakistan Blues and Saim Ayub is leading Pakistan Whites. Faheem Ashraf represented Pakistan Greens at the ceremony in place of their regular captain, Shadab Khan.