Former Test cricketer and Lahore Qalandar’s coach Aaqib Javed has backed Shaheen Shah Afridi to become the captain of the Pakistan team in T20Is.

Speaking to a local cricket website, Aaqib highly rated Shaheen and said that the 23-year-old speedster did what none of the captains did during Pakistan Super League (PSL) so far.

Lahore Qalandars won two consecutive PSL titles under Shaheen's captaincy.

"He won back-to-back PSL titles. The way he carries the team and his style of working is commendable," Aaqib said.

"Even if you bring Shadab, regardless of the format, I don't see any variations or changes — particularly aggressive change. Or if you bring in Rizwan, there won't be any apparent culture change. If someone can amp up Pakistan cricket and take it in the right direction, that is Shaheen Shah Afridi," he added.

Shaheen became the only captain to win two PSL titles and also the only skipper to defend the title. Shaheen-led Lahore beat Multan Sultans both times to win the coveted PSL trophy.

"Babar should stay the captain in test and one-day formats. Shaheen should lead the national side as a captain in T20Is, keeping in mind ICC T20 World Cup 2024. Shaheen's approach is positive, and he plays fearless cricket," Aaqib asserted.