PCB names Shahid Afridi as captain for World Cup

PCB did not announce the captain when they announced the 15-man squad on January 18.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) late on Thursday night announced that Shahid Afridi will lead the Pakistan side in the cricket World Cup, to be held from February 19 – April 2 in India, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh.

The cricket board (PCB) announced their 15-man squad for the showpiece event on January 18 but  did announce a skipper until today (Friday).

Pakistan’s current limited-overs captain Shahid Afridi and the Test skipper Misbahul Haq were the two contenders for leading the team in the World Cup.

They downplayed the ongoing row but former players lashed out saying the decision was likely to harm team unity.

Afridi had earlier said: “It would not be an issue for me if I’m removed as captain.”

“It doesn’t make a difference whether Misbah leads the side or I lead the side because we both are playing for our country.”

Afridi had also shrugged-off reports of differences with Misbah.

“We don’t have any differences. He is a good player who remains focused on his job.”