Shaheen Afridi Breaks Silence on Babar Azam Captaincy Reports: ‘For Now, I Am the Captain’… What Happens Next?

Shaheen Shah Afridi has addressed the growing speculation surrounding Pakistan’s ODI captaincy, with reports suggesting that former skipper Babar Azam could make a return to a leadership role ahead of the 2027 ODI World Cup.

Asked about his position and whether he would remain captain for the World Cup, Afridi kept his response short and direct: “For now, I am the captain.” His remark comes amid renewed discussion over Pakistan’s leadership structure.

Shaheen Afridi keeps the focus on the present

Afridi’s response did not confirm or dismiss reports about a possible leadership change. Instead, the Pakistan pacer made it clear that he remains the current ODI captain.

The speculation has emerged alongside reports that Babar Azam could potentially return to a more prominent leadership position if his performances in upcoming Test assignments strengthen his case for an all-format role. However, no official announcement confirming such a change has been reported.

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Afridi’s ODI captaincy record

Afridi was appointed Pakistan’s ODI captain in October 2025, replacing Mohammad Rizwan. Since taking charge, he has led Pakistan in 11 ODIs, winning seven of those matches, according to recent reports.

Pakistan also secured a home ODI series victory over Australia under his leadership, giving the left-arm fast bowler a positive start to his captaincy tenure.

Why Babar Azam’s name is back in the discussion

Babar Azam remains one of Pakistan’s most prominent cricketers, and speculation about his possible return to leadership has intensified following reports surrounding the team’s future captaincy structure.

Former Pakistan batter Basit Ali has also reportedly predicted that Babar could captain Pakistan at the 2027 ODI World Cup. However, these remain reports and opinions rather than an official decision by the Pakistan Cricket Board.

For now, Afridi remains the man officially in charge of Pakistan’s ODI side.

Pakistan already looking towards the 2027 World Cup

While questions about captaincy dominate the headlines, Afridi has stressed that Pakistan’s priority should be preparing a strong squad for the next World Cup.

He is currently involved in the National Champions Cup, where he is captaining Pakistan Gold. The tournament is being used as an opportunity to assess domestic players and strengthen Pakistan’s pool of options ahead of the global tournament.

Afridi has highlighted the importance of identifying players who can step in if injuries affect the squad during a major tournament. The National Champions Cup therefore offers selectors another opportunity to evaluate both individual performances and player fitness.

The captaincy question remains open

Afridi’s “For now, I am the captain” comment has added another layer to the ongoing discussion rather than ending it.

The statement confirms the present situation but leaves Pakistan’s longer-term leadership plans open. With the 2027 ODI World Cup still ahead, performances, team results and decisions by the PCB could all influence who ultimately leads Pakistan in the tournament.

For the moment, however, Shaheen Afridi remains Pakistan’s ODI captain, while reports of a possible Babar Azam comeback continue to generate debate among cricket followers.

Note: Reports about Babar Azam potentially returning as Pakistan’s ODI or all-format captain have not been officially confirmed. The leadership situation may change as the PCB makes future decisions.