Pakistan’s leadership in cricket is set for another shake-up, as star batter Babar Azam has announced his resignation from the limited-overs captaincy.
The 29-year-old was removed from the role following Pakistan’s disappointing campaign at the 2023 ODI World Cup.
However, just three months later, Babar was reappointed in March 2024.
His second stint, however, began under challenging circumstances, as Pakistan exited the T20 World Cup in the group stages.
A shocking defeat to the USA and a painful loss to rivals India, after being in a winning position, marked the low points of his tenure.
This latest resignation doesn’t come as a shock, given Pakistan cricket’s unpredictable leadership changes.
The team’s overall morale has been low, highlighted by the Test side’s first-ever defeat to Bangladesh.
Babar, acknowledging the toll of captaincy, took to social media platform ‘X’ to announce his decision, stating that it was time to focus solely on his batting after a subpar 2023-24 season.
“Dear Fans, I’m sharing some news with you today.
I have decided to resign as captain of the Pakistan men’s cricket team, effective as of my notification to the PCB and Team Management last month,” Babar wrote.
“It’s been an honour to lead this team, but it’s time for me to step down and focus on my playing role.
Captaincy has been rewarding, but it’s brought a heavy workload.
I want to prioritise my performance, enjoy my batting, and spend more time with my family, which brings me joy.
“By stepping down, I hope to gain clarity and channel my energy into my game and personal growth.
I’m grateful for your unwavering support.
Your enthusiasm means the world to me.
I’m proud of what we’ve achieved together and excited to keep contributing as a player.”
Pakistan’s upcoming white-ball fixtures include tours to Australia, Zimbabwe, and South Africa over the next six months.
Shaheen Afridi, who briefly replaced Babar as T20I captain before also being removed, leaves open the question of who will take up the mantle next.
Pakistan hasn’t played an ODI since their World Cup campaign ended.
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