Afridi keeps focus on present role amid leadership speculation

Pakistan ODI captain Shaheen Shah Afridi has responded to reports that Babar Azam could eventually reclaim a larger leadership role by making clear that he remains captain for now.

Asked at a press conference whether the Pakistan Cricket Board had confirmed that he would lead the team through the 2027 ODI World Cup, Afridi offered a brief reply: “For now, I am the captain.”

The comment comes amid renewed uncertainty over Pakistan’s leadership structure. Reports have suggested that Babar Azam could be considered for an all-format captaincy role, but no such move has been officially confirmed. Pakistan have also changed captains frequently in recent years, adding pressure to Afridi’s tenure.

Domestic tournament viewed as World Cup preparation

Rather than dwell on his own position, Afridi highlighted the importance of the National Champions Cup, which runs from August 11 to 18 and brings together leading domestic players.

The left-arm fast bowler said the competition could help Pakistan create the depth required for a major tournament, particularly because injuries often force teams to make late changes.

“Whenever we go to a World Cup, we face a lot of injuries. In case there are any injuries before the World Cup, we will already have players available. The tournament pool will make it easier for us to find replacements,” Afridi said.

He added that the tournament should allow players to perform in their preferred positions, giving selectors a clearer view of their suitability for international cricket.

“This tournament will give everyone an opportunity to play according to their respective positions,” he said.

Form and fitness to shape Pakistan’s planning

Afridi said performances in the competition would be assessed alongside players’ fitness as Pakistan prepares for the 2027 World Cup. He indicated that the event would be important not only for individual form but also for identifying reliable alternatives across the squad.

“All the players will try to put in good performances. As I said, our focus is on the World Cup. Besides individual performances, the performances and fitness of other players will also be assessed,” he said.

Pakistan’s preparations will include tri-series commitments and a five-match series in England. For now, Afridi remains the team’s ODI captain, while speculation over Babar Azam’s future leadership role continues without official confirmation.