Azhar Ali named as captain of Pakistan ODI team

Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Shahryar Khan addresses the media along with newly appointed one-day international captain Azhar Ali (L)

Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Shahryar Khan has confirmed the appointment of Azhar Ali as the new captain and wicketkeeper Sarfraz Ahmed as the vice-captain of the Pakistan ODI team, with Misbah-ul haq captaining only the test side. Azhar Ali who has 14 ODIs to his name scoring 452 runs at an average of 41.09, last appeared for Pakistan on 2013.

PCB Chairman Shahryar Khan said at a press conference that in a high-level board meeting on Saturday, the potential candidates for the next captain were discussed, with Sarfraz Ahmed, Azhar Ali, Mohammad Hafeez and Wahab Riaz being contenders to lead the ODI team.

He said that Ali emerged as the unanimous choice after thorough consultations with former players, the selection committee, outgoing captain Misbah-ul-Haq and coach Waqar Younis.

"We all know Azhar has not been part of the ODI squad for the last couple of years but he showed his potential during the recent Pentangular Cup. Azhar is a man with great character and is a level-headed individual," Shahryar said.

It’s very difficult to replace Misbah: Azhar

Ali was also named as vice-captain for the Test side, which Misbah will continue to lead, while Shahid Afridi stays on as Twenty20 skipper.

"Unfortunately, we don't have a culture where we can install a 22-year-old captain like South Africa did with Graeme Smith. Both Azhar and Sarfraz are experienced but they will be given time to adjust. We are looking to bring change and needed fresh faces at the top." Shahryar said.

Azhar, after being named as the captain, acknowledged the man he is replacing admitting it is a daunting task.

“It's a huge responsibility and I hope that all players will support me. I salute him (Misbah-ul-Haq), the way he served and the way he played. His services are unforgettable,” he added.

“It is a very difficult task to replace him and it (Misbah's departure) will create a huge gap especially in one-day cricket.” he said.