The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has reportedly decided to remove Babar Azam from the captaincy in all formats, bringing an end to his extended tenure in the leadership role. This decision follows Pakistan’s failure to qualify for the semi-finals in the ICC World Cup 2023 in India. Sources suggest that if Babar decides to resign, the board will accept it; otherwise, the PCB will terminate his captaincy.
It is mentioned that Shan Masood is a strong contender for the captaincy in the upcoming Test series against Australia, while Shaheen Shah Afridi is considered for the T20I series in New Zealand. Sources also indicate that Shaheen might lead the team in the T20 World Cup next year.
Babar Azam took over as white-ball captain in 2019 and as Test skipper in 2020, but the team has not secured any ICC or Asia Cup titles under his leadership. Despite entering the World Cup as the top-ranked side, Pakistan failed to advance beyond the group stage.
Mickey Arthur, the team’s director, expressed support for Babar, stating that making mistakes is not a “crime” and acknowledging the captain’s mental state after the World Cup disappointment. Babar is expected to meet with PCB Management Committee Chairman Zaka Ashraf, and an announcement regarding his captaincy is anticipated afterward.
