Pakistan Cricket Board has announced the reinstatement of Babar Azam as the captain of Pakistan’s white-ball cricket team, reclaiming his role after resigning last year following a disappointing World Cup campaign. This decision brings an abrupt end to Shaheen Afridi’s brief tenure as the T20 skipper, during which he led the team in just one series.
Babar Azam’s resignation came amidst Pakistan’s struggles in the World Cup held in India, prompting a series of changes within the PCB’s leadership structure. Shan Masood was appointed as the Test captain, leading the team in a challenging series against Australia. Meanwhile, the T20I captaincy was handed over to Shaheen Afridi, with Mohammad Rizwan serving as his deputy.
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However, Afridi’s stint as captain faced early setbacks, with Pakistan losing the series under his leadership by a significant margin. Additionally, Lahore Qalandars, the PSL team led by Afridi, endured a disappointing season, winning just one out of ten games and finishing at the bottom of the table.
Babar Azam appointed as white-ball captain
Following unanimous recommendation from the PCB’s selection committee, Chairman PCB Mohsin Naqvi has appointed Babar Azam as white-ball (ODI and T20I) captain of the Pakistan men’s cricket team. pic.twitter.com/ad4KLJYRMK
— Pakistan Cricket (@TheRealPCB) March 31, 2024
Following a unanimous recommendation from the selection panel comprising Wahab Riaz, Asad Shafiq, Abdul Razzaq, and Mohammad Yousuf, Babar Azam has been reinstated as the captain. His leadership will be tested in the upcoming series against New Zealand and England, leading up to the T20 World Cup scheduled for June.
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Babar’s return as skipper signifies a renewed focus on stability and experience within the team leadership, aiming to bolster Pakistan’s performance in the upcoming tournaments. With key series against strong opponents on the horizon, including New Zealand and England, Babar Azam’s leadership will be crucial in guiding Pakistan to success in white-ball cricket.