Babar Azam has announced his resignation as the captain of the Pakistan cricket team across all formats. The decision follows Pakistan’s disappointing exit from the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 group stage.
Azam, a highly regarded batter, shared the news on Wednesday, stating, “It’s a difficult decision, but I feel it is the right time for this call. I will continue to represent Pakistan as a player in all three formats.”
— Babar Azam (@babarazam258) November 15, 2023
New Leadership Takes Charge
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) swiftly appointed Shan Masood as the new test captain, entrusting him with the responsibility through the World Test Championship cycle of 2023-25. Masood’s first major assignment will be leading Pakistan on its tour to Australia next month, featuring three test matches.
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Additionally, left-arm fast bowler Shaheen Afridi has been named the T20 captain, leading the team in a five-match series in New Zealand in January.
Despite his successful stint as captain, which saw Pakistan rise to No. 1 in ODI rankings, Azam faced criticism, especially following the team’s recent World Cup performance. The PCB had offered the option to continue as the test captain to alleviate the burden, but Babar Azam declined.
PCB Managing Committee Chairman Zaka Ashraf expressed hope that without the additional burden of captaincy, Azam could focus more on his performances and reach greater heights as one of Pakistan’s best batters.
In a spectacular display of skill and determination, the Indian cricket team has triumphed over the New Zealand cricket team, securing a coveted spot in the World Cup 2023 final. The match, marked by Virat Kohli’s outstanding performance, unfolded with India clinching a resounding victory by 70 runs.