• Sportzyverse
• Cricket news, T20 World Cup 2024
• 03/27/2024
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Babar Azam, the esteemed right-handed batter, has made a significant decision, relinquishing his role as the captain of the Pakistan cricket team across all formats. This pivotal move comes after Pakistan’s disappointing performance in the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023. The team failed to advance to the semifinals, managing only five wins out of nine group-stage fixtures.

Azam reportedly discussed his decision with officials from the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) before making his announcement, but the decision to step down was not taken lightly. Sources suggest that Azam is expected to meet with PCB representatives before joining his teammates at a fitness camp in Abbottabad, held at the prestigious military academy Kakul.

Azam’s resignation was formally announced after a meeting with PCB Chairman Zaka Ashraf, indicating a mutual understanding between the player and the governing body. Following his departure from the captaincy role, the PCB named Shaheen Afridi as the new leader for the T20 internationals, signalling a shift in leadership dynamics within the team.

Also read Pakistan’s Mohammad Amir Comes Out of Retirement Ahead of T20 World Cup

Babar Azam to replace Shaheen Afridi as Pakistan Captain

Shaheen Afridi, renowned for his prowess as a star speedster, had taken over the captaincy of the T20I side in November, albeit for a brief period of one series comprising five matches against New Zealand. Unfortunately, Pakistan faced defeat in the series, succumbing to a 4-1 loss to the Kiwis.

The setback in New Zealand was compounded by Lahore Qalandars’ dismal campaign in the Pakistan Super League (PSL), where the franchise, under Afridi’s leadership, managed to secure only one victory out of ten matches. This string of defeats, both at the international and domestic levels, likely contributed to Azam’s decision to step down, as the pressure to deliver results mounted on the shoulders of the captain and the team.

As Pakistan cricket undergoes a leadership transition, with Azam relinquishing his captaincy responsibilities, the focus now shifts to rebuilding and regaining momentum under the guidance of Shaheen Afridi and the newly appointed leadership team.