In a significant shake-up, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has made up it’s mind to relieve Babar Azam of his captaincy duties across all formats, sources revealed. Although, an official decision is expected soon but this is all but confirmed that this will end Babar Azam’s tenure as captain.
The decision stems from Pakistan’s inability to secure a spot in the ICC World Cup semi-finals, with their lackluster performance in batting, bowling, and fielding contributing to their early exit from the tournament.
Sources indicate that if Babar Azam opts to submit his resignation, the PCB will accept it. However, if he chooses not to resign, the board will proceed to remove him from the captain’s post.
Who will replace Babar Azam as captain?
For the upcoming Test series against Australia, Shan Masood is touted as a strong candidate for the captaincy role, while Shaheen Shah Afridi is considered for the T20I series in New Zealand. Sources also suggest that Shaheen might lead the team in the T20 World Cup next year.
Babar Azam, appointed as white-ball captain in 2019 and Test skipper in 2021, faced criticism as the national team failed to secure any ICC or Asia Cup titles under his leadership. Despite entering the World Cup as the top-ranked side, Pakistan’s performance fell short, leading to their premature exit in the group stage.
Mickey Arthur, the team’s director, expressed support for Babar Azam, acknowledging the captain’s emotional state after the World Cup disappointment, stating that making mistakes is not a “crime.”
Babar Azam is set to meet with PCB Management Committee Chairman Zaka Ashraf, and an official announcement regarding his captaincy is anticipated after the meeting. The decision marks a pivotal moment for Pakistan cricket as they seek a fresh direction in leadership.
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