Lahore, November 16: Babar Azam on Wednesday decided to step down as Pakistan captain across all formats after the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) requested for his resignation in the wake of the team’s disappointing performance in the ICC Men’s ODI World Cup in India. . ,
The PCB had already sacked the Pakistan selection committee on Tuesday following the resignation of chief selector Inzamam Ul Haq amid a controversy over conflict of interest related to his alleged ownership of a UK-registered player management company. The PCB’s reconstitution continued with Babar requested to resign the captaincy.
- Advertisement -
In response to the situation, Babar Azam took to social media, specifically, to formally announce his resignation as captain while expressing his gratitude towards the PCB and acknowledging the ups and downs he had experienced during his leadership. Took the help of X (formerly Twitter).
— Babar Azam (@babarazam258) November 15, 2023
“Today, I am stepping down as the captain of Pakistan in all formats,” Babar said. It is a difficult decision but I feel this is the right time for this decision.” Despite stepping down from the role of captain, Babar will continue to represent Pakistan in all formats, promising to support the new captain and the team with his experience and dedication.
He also thanked the PCB for handing over the captaincy and stressed his commitment to contribute to Pakistan cricket as a player.
Presenting our captains 🇵🇰@shani_official has been appointed Test captain while @iShaheenAfridi will lead the T20I side. pic.twitter.com/wPSebUB60m
— Pakistan Cricket (@TheRealPCB) November 15, 2023
Following the resignation of Babar Azam, the PCB appointed Shan Masood as the Test captain and Shaheen Shah Afridi as the T20I captain. With a remarkable record in Tests, Shan will lead the team in the three-match Test series against Australia starting on December 14. Meanwhile, Shaheen Shah Afridi, a left-arm fast bowler with leadership experience in the Pakistan Super League (PSL), will captain the T20I team in the five-match series in New Zealand starting January 12.
The captain for the ODI format will be announced by the PCB in due course. These changes signal a significant change in Pakistan’s cricket leadership, aimed at revitalizing the team’s performance and strategic direction.
