PAK vs SL 2025: We need to carry the winning momentum forward for Sri Lanka series, says Shaheen Afridi

Shaheen Afridi during an ODI match (Source: Muhammad Sameer Ali/Getty Images)

Pakistan ODI captain Shaheen Afridi has sent a message to his teammates ahead of the three-match series against Sri Lanka. Pakistan will host their Asian rivals for the ODIs, beginning in Rawalpindi on Tuesday, November 11. Afridi has urged his side to build on the winning momentum they gained during their recent series triumph over South Africa.

The series against South Africa was Afridi’s first in charge as Pakistan’s ODI skipper, and he made an impressive start, guiding the team to a 2-1 series victory over the Proteas.

The success marked a welcome return to form in 50-over cricket for Pakistan, following a disappointing performance at the ICC Champions Trophy earlier this year on home soil. Afridi emphasised the need for his side to maintain consistency as they continue to develop as a unit.

“The series win against South Africa in Faisalabad was a great boost for our confidence. It was my first series as ODI captain, and I was really proud of the way the players responded to different situations and played as a unit. The energy, intent and teamwork were outstanding,” said Afridi to ICC.

“Going into the Sri Lanka series, our focus is to carry that winning momentum forward. We want to build consistency in our performances and make sure that we keep improving as a team in every department. Sri Lanka are a disciplined side and always challenge you with their skills. We will need to play smart cricket, stick to our plans and stay positive. The goal is to keep developing as a team and to continue giving our fans performances they can be proud of,” he added.

Afridi said it is important for every member of Pakistan’s squad to take responsibility for their performances in 50-over cricket, and that leadership should not always fall solely on the senior players.

“All the players should take responsibility. It’s not Shaheen, Fakhar, Babar, or Saim’s job, we all should do our best. We should even back those players who are not performing and always believe that we can perform as a team,” said Afridi.

Pakistan squad:

Shaheen Shah Afridi (captain), Abrar Ahmed, Babar Azam, Faheem Ashraf, Faisal Akram, Fakhar Zaman, Haris Rauf, Haseebullah, Hussain Talat, Mohammad Nawaz, Mohammad Rizwan (wicket-keeper), Mohammad Wasim Jnr, Naseem Shah, Saim Ayub, Salman Ali Agha