Decision on Rizwan’s ODI captaincy expected today

LAHORE: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is set to decide the future of wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan as captain of the national One Day International (ODI) team today.

According to PCB sources, a joint meeting of the selection and advisory committees has been convened in Lahore to deliberate on whether Rizwan will continue leading the ODI side. The meeting has been called on the recommendation of head coach Mike Hesson.

The discussion will also finalise the captain for the upcoming ODI series against South Africa. Fast bowler Shaheen Afridi and all-rounder Salman Ali Agha are among the leading contenders for the role should the board opt for a change.

Rizwan was appointed Pakistan’s ODI captain on October 27 last year, becoming the 31st player to lead the national side in the format. Under his leadership, Pakistan defeated Australia in an ODI series on Australian soil for the first time in 22 years. The team also claimed series wins against South Africa and Zimbabwe.

However, Rizwan’s tenure has not been without setbacks, Pakistan suffered losses in the Champions Trophy, a tri-nation series, and the home series against the West Indies during his captaincy.

The PCB is expected to announce its decision following today’s meeting.