Babar Azam resigns as captain of Pakistan’s cricket team, shocking the cricket world with his official decision. In a post on the social media platform X, Babar confirmed his resignation, stating, “I have decided to resign as captain of the Pakistan men’s cricket team, effective from my notice to the PCB (Pakistan Cricket Board) and Team Management last month.”
The prolific cricketer explained that while it had been an honor to lead Pakistan, he felt it was the right time to step down and focus on his role as a player. “Captaincy has been a rewarding experience, but it has also brought a significant workload, which I feel is impacting my performance and well-being. I want to prioritize my performance, enjoy my batting again, and spend more quality time with my family, which brings me joy,” Babar Azam stated in his emotional post.
He further expressed that stepping down from the captaincy would give him the clarity and space needed to concentrate more on his game and personal growth, adding, “I’m stepping down so I can move forward with a clearer head and more energy directed towards improving myself as a player.”
Babar Azam also conveyed his gratitude to fans and supporters, saying, “Your enthusiasm and unwavering support have meant the world to me. I’m proud of everything we’ve achieved together, and I’m excited to continue contributing to the team in the future as a player.”
Babar Azam’s journey as captain began in 2019 when he was appointed as the captain of Pakistan’s T20 squad. His leadership responsibilities expanded in 2020 when he took charge of both the Test and ODI teams.
Earlier this year, he returned to the helm after the Pakistan Cricket Board announced that he would lead Pakistan in both ODI and T20 formats as part of a strategic move. However, following disappointing performances in the Asia Cup and the 50-over World Cup last year, Babar decided to relinquish the captaincy in November.
During his captaincy, Babar Azam enjoyed several highs, but the growing criticism over the team’s poor performances, particularly in the T20 World Cup and a disastrous home series against Bangladesh, placed immense pressure on him. Shaheen Shah Afridi took over as the T20 captain, while Shan Masood was handed the Test team leadership.
Sources close to the situation revealed that Babar Azam had set several conditions for the PCB if he were to continue as captain, including having full authority over team decisions and a guaranteed two-year term as captain. Reports also indicated that Babar did not want to be held solely responsible for Pakistan’s performance during the T20 World Cup. Despite these efforts, Babar Azam has ultimately chosen to step down.
In light of Babar Azam’s resignation, PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi announced that consultations with key stakeholders would soon determine the future leadership of Pakistan’s cricket teams. Both Babar Azam and Shan Masood, who has faced similar criticism, are under review, with reports indicating that Mohammad Rizwan could be considered for the captaincy across all formats.
Adding to the pressure, Babar Azam recently dropped out of the top 10 of the ICC Test rankings for batsmen after nearly five years, currently sitting at the 11th spot. His highest ranking was second, achieved during England’s tour of Pakistan in 2022, a series in which Pakistan suffered a whitewash. His fall from grace in the Test format has raised concerns, although Babar remains a critical player for Pakistan in all formats.
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As Pakistan cricket faces a period of transition, Babar Azam remains committed to his role as a player and aims to regain his top form. Meanwhile, fans and analysts are eagerly awaiting the board’s decision on the future captaincy.
