Babar Azam steps down as Pakistan’s captain across all platforms. Following Pakistan’s dismal 2023 ODI World Cup campaign, in which they only managed four victories in nine matches and failed to advance to the semi-finals, Babar Azam has resigned as captain of the team in all forms.
“I still clearly recall the day I was called by PCB to lead Pakistan in 2019.” In a statement declaring his decision, Babar stated, “I’ve had many highs and lows over the past four years, both on and off the field, but I wholeheartedly and passionately aimed to maintain Pakistan’s pride and respect in the cricket world.” “The combined efforts of players, coaches, and management allowed us to rank #1 in the white-ball format, but I would also like to thank the fervent Pakistani cricket supporters.
“Today, I am stepping down as the captain of Pakistan in all formats. It’s a difficult decision but I feel it is a right time for this call. I will continue to represent Pakistan as a player in all three formats. I am here to support the new captain and the team with my experience and dedication. I want to express my sincere thanks to the PCB for entrusting me with this significant responsibility.”
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During the World Cup, Babar amassed the third-highest score for Pakistan with 320 runs in nine matches at an average of 40 and strike rate of 82.90.
Although a possible replacement has not been officially announced, Shan Masood remains the clear favorite to assume the Test captaincy going forward. It is believed that Masood was present at the Gaddafi Stadium today.
Babar was given the choice to remain as Test captain whereas the decision to dismiss him as white-ball skipper was handed to him as a fait accompli, according to a statement released by the PCB shortly after the resignation. “Babar made the decision to resign after talking with his family, and PCB supports his choice. PCB honors his choice and is still a supporter of him as a player.”
“Babar Azam is truly a world-class player and we want him to continue to thrive as a player,” Ashraf stated. “Among Pakistan’s greatest batters ever, he is. He is a resource for us, and we will always be there for him.”
