LAHORE: After a poor show and early exit from the ICC World Cup, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) finally decided to replace Babar Azam as the skipper of the Pakistan Cricket Team in all formats, as disclosed by reliable sources here on Wednesday. The sources further disclosed that the decision was taken after a meeting of the Chairman of the management committee, Zaka Ashraf, and Babar Azam at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore.
Meanwhile, Babar Azam has confirmed the news after announcing his resignation as captain from all formats via his X (formerly Twitter) account. He further said that he would continue to represent Pakistan as a player.
— Babar Azam (@babarazam258) November 15, 2023
Meanwhile, the sources revealed that PCB has also decided to appoint former cricketer and skipper Pakistan Cricket Team Muhammad Hafeez as Director of Cricket. Muhammad Hafeez would not only replace Mickey Arthur but would also perform as head coach of the Pakistan Cricket Team.
It was also learned that during the meeting between Babar Azam and Zaka Ashraf, Babar Azam was conveyed to lead the team in the red ball format only; however, Babar refused to do so. It is expected that PCB may consider opening batsman Shan Masood as test captain.
Babar Azam as Captain of Pakistan Cricket Team
Babar Azam remained under huge criticism as captain of the Pakistan Cricket Team in recent times, particularly in the Asia Cup and then in the ICC World Cup. Cricket experts were of the view that leading the Pakistani side has also affected the batting average of Babar Azam and, due to his defensive strategies, not only affected the team’s performance but also that of Babar Azam.
