List of all captains of the Pakistan cricket team

List of all captains of the Pakistan cricket team:

CaptainCaptaincy SpanODI MatchesODI WinsTest MatchesTest Wins
Abdul Hafeez Kardar1954-1958125208
Imtiaz Ahmed1958-19593231
Nasrullah Khan1959-1964158125
Fazal Mahmood1964-19652121
Hanif Mohammad1965-1969178248
Intikhab Alam1969-1971126132
Asif Iqbal1975-19813718229
Javed Miandad1981-1992113738341
Imran Khan1982-199275424814
Wasim Akram1992-200081405022
Waqar Younis2000-2001125122
Salim Malik20011010
Rashid Latif20011010
Shahid Afridi2004-200952232914
Younis Khan2009-201165295022
Misbah-ul-Haq2011-201578485626
Azhar Ali2015-201610393
Sarfraz Ahmed2016-201987423317
Babar Azam2019-present81523117


The first captain is Asif Iqbal (1975–81): Led Pakistan in 37 ODIs, winning 18.

In this captains list, Asif Iqbal was a formidable leader for the Pakistan cricket team during his tenure from 1975 to 1981. He captained the team in 37 One Day International (ODI) matches, securing victory in 18 of them. His leadership qualities and tactical acumen played a significant role in Pakistan's success during this period.

Iqbal's captaincy was characterized by his calm and composed demeanor, even under pressure. He was able to inspire his players and bring out the best in them. His ability to read the game and make quick decisions was also a major asset.


Under Iqbal's leadership, Pakistan emerged as a force to be reckoned with in ODI cricket. They reached the semi-finals of the 1975 and 1979 World Cups and won several ODI series against other top teams.


Iqbal's legacy as Pakistan's ODI captain is one of success and innovation. He was a pioneer in the use of spinners in ODI cricket, and his leadership style is still admired by many cricketers today.

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Javed Miandad (1980–96): Led Pakistan in 78 ODIs, winning 36.

Javed Miandad, the captaincy Pakistani batsman, also made a significant mark as a captain, leading the team in 78 ODIs from 1980 to 1996. His tenure was marked by both successes and challenges, but overall, he left an indelible mark on Pakistan's ODI cricket.


Miandad's captaincy was characterized by his shrewdness and determination. He was a master tactician, always looking for ways to outwit the opposition. He was also a fiery competitor, never backing down from a challenge.


Under Miandad's leadership, Pakistan achieved notable victories in ODI cricket. They reached the final of the 1983 and 1987 World Cups and won several ODI series against other top teams. Miandad himself was a key player in many of these successes, often scoring crucial runs and taking important wickets.


However, Miandad's captaincy was not without its challenges. He was often criticized for his abrasive style and his tendency to micromanage his players. He also faced internal conflicts within the team, which sometimes affected their performance on the field.


Despite these challenges, Miandad's legacy as Pakistan's ODI captain is one of success and leadership. He was a shrewd tactician, a fiery competitor, and a key player in many of Pakistan's ODI triumphs. His leadership style, while sometimes controversial, left an undeniable impact on the team and the game of cricket.

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Zaheer Abbas (1982–84): Led Pakistan in 17 ODIs, winning eight.


Zaheer Abbas's tenure as Pakistan's ODI captain from 1982 to 1984 was relatively short-lived compared to some of his predecessors and successors, but he still managed to leave a mark on the team's ODI fortunes. He led Pakistan in 17 ODIs, winning eight of them.

Abbas's captaincy was marked by a more aggressive approach than that of his predecessor, Asif Iqbal. He was known for his attacking batting style, and he encouraged his team to play a similarly attacking brand of cricket. This approach paid off in some matches, but it also led to some heavy defeats.

Overall, Abbas's captaincy was a mixed bag. He won some important matches, but he also lost some key matches. He was not afraid to take risks, and his attacking style of play was sometimes successful, but it also sometimes backfired.

Here is a summary of Zaheer Abbas's ODI captaincy record:

  • Matches played: 17
  • Wins: 8
  • Losses: 9
  • Win-loss percentage: 47.06%

Abbas's win-loss percentage as ODI captain is not the best, but it is important to note that he took over the team during a period of transition. Pakistan was still trying to find its feet in ODI cricket after the retirement of several key players, and Abbas was one of the players who was tasked with leading the team into a new era.

Despite his mixed record as captain, Abbas is still remembered as a great player and a pioneer of the attacking style of play that Pakistan has become known for.

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Imran Khan (1984–92): Led Pakistan in 139 ODIs, winning 75.

Imran Khan's tenure as Pakistan's ODI captain from 1984 to 1992 was a period of unprecedented success for the team. He led Pakistan in 139 ODI matches, securing a remarkable 75 victories. His astute leadership, coupled with his exceptional cricketing skills, transformed Pakistan into a dominant force in ODI cricket.

Khan's captaincy was marked by his charismatic personality, unwavering belief in his team, and ability to make daring decisions. He instilled a fighting spirit in his players, encouraging them to play with passion and self-belief. His tactical brilliance, particularly in using reverse swing bowling, often outwitted opponents.

Under Khan's leadership, Pakistan achieved numerous milestones in ODI cricket. They won the 1992 Cricket World Cup, defeating England in an electrifying final. They also topped the ODI rankings for several years, cementing their position as a cricketing powerhouse.

Imran Khan's legacy as Pakistan's ODI captain is unparalleled. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest ODI captains of all time, having led his team to numerous victories and inspiring generations of cricketers. His leadership style and cricketing genius continue to be admired by fans and cricket experts alike.

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Wasim Akram (1993–99): Led Pakistan in 109 ODIs, winning 59.


Wasim Akram's captaincy record in ODIs is truly remarkable. He led Pakistan in 109 ODIs between 1993 and 1999, winning 59 of them. This gives him a win percentage of 54.13%, which is among the highest among all ODI captains.

Akram's success as captain can be attributed to several factors. He was a brilliant bowler himself, and he was able to get the best out of his bowlers. He was also a very astute tactician, and he was always able to come up with a plan to win the match.

Akram's leadership qualities were also a major factor in his success. He was able to inspire his players and get them to believe in themselves. He was also a very good motivator, and he was always able to get the best out of his players.

Akram's captaincy was not without its controversies, but he was always able to overcome them. He was a very strong leader, and he was never afraid to make tough decisions.

Akram's record as Pakistan's ODI captain is one of the best in history. He was a brilliant bowler, a tactician, and a leader. He was able to get the best out of his players, and he led Pakistan to many victories.

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Saleem Malik (1992–95): Led Pakistan in 34 ODIs, winning 23.


Saleem Malik was a dynamic and charismatic leader who led Pakistan in 34 ODIs, winning 23 of them. He was a hard-hitting batsman and a skilled fielder, and he was able to motivate his team to perform at their best.

Malik's captaincy was marked by his aggressive approach to the game. He was not afraid to take risks, and he often led by example. His positive attitude and infectious enthusiasm were major factors in Pakistan's success during his tenure as captain.

Malik was also a shrewd tactician. He was able to read the game well and make quick, decisive decisions. He was also a master of using his bowlers to exploit the weaknesses of the opposition.

Under Malik's leadership, Pakistan won several ODI tournaments, including the 1992 Asia Cup and the 1994 Austral-Asia Cup. They also reached the final of the 1992 World Cup, where they lost to England.

Malik's legacy as Pakistan's ODI captain is one of success and innovation. He was a pioneer in the use of pinch-hitters in ODI cricket, and his leadership style is still admired by many cricketers today.

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Abdul Qadir (1987–88): Led Pakistan in five ODIs, winning two.

Abdul Qadir’s captaincy for Pakistan was brief but impactful. He led the team in five One Day International (ODI) matches between 1987 and 1988, securing victories in two of them. Despite his limited tenure, Qadir left a lasting impression on Pakistan's ODI cricket.

Qadir's captaincy was marked by his aggressive approach and tactical nous. He was known for his unorthodox bowling style, which often caught opposing batsmen off guard. His ability to take wickets and control the run rate made him a valuable asset to the team.

Under Qadir's leadership, Pakistan played a more attacking brand of ODI cricket. They were not afraid to take risks, and this often paid off. The team's performances under Qadir showed that they were capable of competing with the best teams in the world.

Qadir's legacy as Pakistan's ODI captain is one of innovation and aggression. He was a pioneer in the use of leg spin in ODI cricket, and his leadership style encouraged his players to play with flair and freedom.

Here's a summary of Abdul Qadir's captaincy:

  • Led Pakistan in five ODIs (1987-1988)
  • Won two ODIs
  • Known for his aggressive approach and tactical nous
  • Pioneered the use of leg spin in ODI cricket
  • Encouraged players to play with flair and freedom

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Sarfraz Nawaz (1984): Led Pakistan in one ODI, winning one.



Sarfraz Nawaz's brief tenure as Pakistan's ODI captain in 1984 was marked by a single match, which Pakistan won. This solitary leadership role stands out in Nawaz's illustrious cricket career, known for his exceptional bowling prowess and contributions as a fast bowler.

Nawaz's captaincy was a testament to his all-round abilities and leadership potential. Despite leading the team in just one ODI, he demonstrated his ability to inspire his teammates and steer them towards victory.

Nawaz's legacy extends far beyond his brief captaincy. He is widely regarded as one of the pioneers of reverse swing bowling, a technique that revolutionized the game of cricket. His mastery of reverse swing, coupled with his fiery pace and accurate bowling, made him a formidable opponent for batsmen worldwide.

Nawaz's contributions to Pakistani cricket extend beyond his playing days. He has served as a cricket commentator and coach, sharing his knowledge and expertise with the next generation of players. His passion for the game and his commitment to its development have earned him the respect and admiration of cricket fans and players alike.

While his captaincy may have been brief, Sarfraz Nawaz's impact on Pakistani cricket is undeniable. His contributions as a bowler, leader, and mentor have left an indelible mark on the sport, and his legacy continues to inspire cricketers and fans across the globe.

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Shahid Afridi (2004–11): Led Pakistan in 79 ODIs, winning 40.


Shahid Afridi's captaincy of the Pakistan cricket team in One Day Internationals (ODIs) from 2004 to 2011 was a period marked by both triumphs and challenges. He led the team in 79 ODIs, securing victory in 40 of them. His leadership was characterized by his aggressive and passionate approach to the game, which often inspired his players to perform at their best.

Afridi's captaincy was not without its critics, who pointed to his inconsistent decision-making and occasional recklessness on the field. However, he was also praised for his ability to motivate his team and his commitment to attacking cricket.

Under Afridi's leadership, Pakistan achieved some notable successes in ODIs, including reaching the semi-finals of the 2007 and 2011 Cricket World Cups. They also won several ODI series against top-ranked teams, including India and England.

Afridi's captaincy record is mixed, but he is undoubtedly one of the most popular and charismatic figures in Pakistani cricket. His legacy as an ODI captain is one of excitement and unpredictability, and he will be remembered for his ability to inspire his team to play with passion and flair.

Here is a summary of Shahid Afridi's captaincy record in ODIs:

  • Matches: 79
  • Wins: 40
  • Losses: 37
  • Win percentage: 50.63%
  • Notable achievements: Reaching the semi-finals of the 2007 and 2011 Cricket World Cups; winning the ODI series against India and England

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Misbah-ul-Haq (2011–17): Led Pakistan in 87 ODIs, winning 49.

Misbah-ul-Haq's tenure as Pakistan's ODI captain from 2011 to 2017 was marked by remarkable success and a significant transformation of the team. He took over the reins during a challenging period for Pakistan cricket, steering them through turbulent times to become one of the most formidable ODI teams in the world.

Misbah's captaincy was defined by his shrewd leadership, strategic brilliance, and unwavering commitment to discipline. He instilled a sense of unity and purpose among his players, fostering a winning mentality that permeated the team culture.

Under Misbah's leadership, Pakistan achieved remarkable feats in ODI cricket. They topped the ODI rankings in 2015, reached the finals of the 2011 and 2017 ICC Cricket World Cups, and won numerous ODI series against top-tier teams.

Misbah's astute captaincy was evident in his tactical nous and ability to adapt to different situations. He could effectively assess the game's tempo, make astute bowling changes, and guide his batsmen to execute their plans.

Beyond his tactical prowess, Misbah's ability to motivate and inspire his players was a key factor in their success. He instilled a belief in his team's ability to overcome any challenge and instilled a fighting spirit that never waned.

Misbah's legacy as Pakistan's ODI captain is one of unparalleled success and transformative leadership. He transformed Pakistan into a powerhouse in ODI cricket, etching his name among the game's greatest captains.

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Azhar Ali (2014–17): Led Pakistan in 15 ODIs, winning seven.

Azhar Ali's tenure as Pakistan's ODI captain from 2014 to 2017 was marked by a period of transition and rebuilding for the team. He led the side in 15 ODI matches, achieving victory in seven of them. While his overall win-loss record may not be the most impressive, Azhar's leadership qualities and contributions to the team's development should not be overlooked.

Azhar took over the captaincy at a time when Pakistan was looking to re-establish itself as a top contender in ODI cricket. The team was facing challenges in finding the right balance between experienced players and emerging youngsters. Azhar, a seasoned batsman himself, provided stability and guidance to the team during this crucial period.

Under Azhar's leadership, Pakistan showed glimpses of their potential, winning the ODI series against tough opponents like Sri Lanka and England. However, they also faced setbacks, losing the series to India and New Zealand. Azhar's captaincy was not without its critics, who pointed to his conservative approach and occasional tactical misses.

Despite these criticisms, Azhar's contributions to Pakistan's ODI team should be recognized. He was a reliable batsman who often led the team by example. His leadership during a period of transition helped lay the foundation for Pakistan's future success in ODI cricket.

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Shoaib Malik (2017–19): Led Pakistan in 19 ODIs, winning 10.

Shoaib Malik's tenure as Pakistan's ODI captain from 2017 to 2019 was marked by both successes and challenges. He led the team in 19 ODIs, securing victory in 10 of them. While his winning percentage of 52.63% is respectable, it is important to note that he captained Pakistan during a period of transition and rebuilding.


Malik's appointment as captain came at a time when Pakistan was struggling to find its footing in ODI cricket. The team had not won an ODI series since 2015, and they were in need of a leader who could bring stability and inspire his players.


Malik did show some promise as a leader. He was able to win several ODI series, including a 3-0 sweep of Sri Lanka in 2017. He also led Pakistan to the final of the 2017 Champions Trophy.


However, Malik's tenure was also marred by some inconsistencies. Pakistan lost several ODI series during his time as captain, and they were often criticized for their lack of discipline and poor fielding.


In the end, Malik was not able to fully turn around Pakistan's fortunes in ODI cricket. He was sacked as captain in 2019, and Pakistan has continued to struggle in ODIs since then.


Despite his mixed record, Malik deserves credit for trying to rebuild Pakistan's ODI team during a difficult time. He was a talented player and a passionate leader, and he will be remembered as one of Pakistan's most versatile cricketers.

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Babar Azam (2019–present): Led Pakistan in 63 ODIs, winning 28.


Babar Azam has emerged as a formidable leader for the Pakistan cricket team since taking over the captaincy in 2019. His tenure has been marked by a combination of consistency, innovation, and a strong desire to win.

Azam has led Pakistan in 63 ODI matches to date, securing victory in 28 of them. This translates to a win percentage of 44.44%, which is a commendable achievement considering the challenges Pakistan has faced in ODI cricket over the years.

Under Azam's captaincy, Pakistan has displayed a more aggressive and fearless approach to ODI cricket. He has encouraged his players to take calculated risks and express themselves freely, which has led to some memorable victories.

Azam has also been praised for his ability to handle pressure and make quick decisions under duress. He has shown remarkable calmness and composure under the spotlight, which has rubbed off on his players and instilled a sense of belief in the team.

Looking ahead, Azam is poised to lead Pakistan to even greater heights in ODI cricket. His leadership qualities, tactical nous, and batting prowess make him a formidable captain, and he is likely to leave an indelible mark on Pakistan's cricketing history.

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Mohammad Rizwan (2021–present): Led Pakistan in 16 ODIs, winning 10.


Mohammad Rizwan has proven to be a capable leader for the Pakistan cricket team since taking over the ODI captaincy in 2021. With a win-loss record of 10 victories in 16 matches, he has demonstrated his ability to guide the team to success.

Rizwan's captaincy is marked by his strategic approach, positive attitude, and ability to motivate his players. He is known for his meticulous planning and his knack for making astute decisions during match situations. His calm demeanor and unwavering belief in his team have instilled confidence among his players, fostering a strong team spirit.

Under Rizwan's leadership, Pakistan has displayed a more aggressive and attacking brand of cricket in ODIs. They have been particularly effective in chasing down targets, showcasing their resilience and fighting spirit. Rizwan's own batting prowess has also been a key factor in the team's success, as he has consistently scored runs at the top of the order.

While Rizwan's captaincy tenure is still in its early stages, he has already made a significant impact on the Pakistan ODI team. His leadership qualities, strategic brilliance, and ability to inspire his players make him a formidable captain and a valuable asset to the team.

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