Azhar Ali named New Pakistan ODI captain

Azhar Ali, the Pakistan right-hander, has been confirmed as Pakistan's new One-Day captain following the retirement of Misbah-ul-Haq after the ICC Cricket World Cup 2015. Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Shahryar Khan confirmed the appointment on Monday. Azhar has not been in Pakistan's ODI plans for over two years now, but got the nod for captaincy ahead of Sarfraz Ahmed following Misbah's and coach Waqar Younis' backing.

Ali, 30, was not picked in the Pakistan World Cup squad but will try to help his side through a period of transition beginning with the series against Bangladesh next month. Ali aggregates 452 runs in 14 outings at an average of 41.09 in the 50-over format.

Azhar Ali named New  Pakistan ODI captain

"Azhar has proved he can be captain and [has shown his mettle in] batting," said Shahryar Khan addressing the media. "In view of his character, leadership and team spirit, the decision has been made to make Azhar new ODI captain. Sarfaraz will be the vice-captain of Test and T20s as well. He is full of spirit and has a fighting character."

Pakistan now have three different captains for the three formats, with Misbah and Shahid Afridi, both of whom retired from ODIs after Pakistan's loss to Australia in the World Cup quarter-final, leading the sides in Tests and T20Is respectively.