The scrutiny on Babar Azam’s captaincy after Pakistan’s disappointing 2023 World Cup performance has intensified. Former cricketers advise him to focus on batting, prompting discussions within the cricket board. Sources suggest a potential meeting between Babar and PCB’s Zaka Ashraf, where he may be presented with the option to resign as captain.
Differing opinions arise, proposing Babar continues as Test captain against Australia but relinquishes limited-overs leadership. Shan Masood emerges as a strong contender for Test captaincy, while Shaheen Shah Afridi is considered for the T20I series in New Zealand. Sarfaraz, initially in the running for Test captaincy, is discouraged by close associates due to the challenging nature of the Australia tour.
Shaheen Shah Afridi’s success with Lahore Qalandars positions him as a potential T20 World Cup captain. Imad Wasim, staging a comeback with impressive performances in PSL 8 and CPL, adds to the captaincy considerations. As discussions unfold and meetings take place, the fate of Pakistan’s cricket captaincy hangs in the balance, with various contenders vying for leadership roles in different formats.
