Babar Azam Steps Down As Pakistan Captain: Pakistan star Babar Azam has resigned from his post as the white-ball captain only six months after his reappointment in the role. The right-handed middle-order batter said in a social media post that he has taken this decision to lessen his “significant workload” as the skipper and to focus “on my playing role” and “personal growth.”
In March earlier this year, Babar Azam was reinstated as Pakistan’s limited-overs skipper, replacing Shaheen Afridi as the T20I captain after only one series. Afridi had replaced Babar as the T20I leader after he had stepped down following Pakistan’s league-stage exit at the World Cup 2023.
However, Pakistan suffered another abject failure under Babar in an ICC event: the Men In Green were knocked out in the group stage of the ICC T20 World Cup 2024 in June, following losses to the USA and India.
I will focus more energy on my game: Babar Azam Steps Down As Pakistan Captain
Babar said in his social media post:
“I have decided to resign as captain of the Pakistan men’s cricket team. 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 a rewarding experience, but it’s added a significant workload.
“By stepping down, I will gain clarity moving forward and focus more energy on my game and personal growth. I’m grateful for your unwavering support and belief in me. Your enthusiasm has meant the world to me. I’m proud of what we’ve achieved together and excited to continue contributing to the team as a player. Thank you for your love and support.”
Babar’s own batting form has significantly dipped in the last couple of years. Since the start of 2023, he has played 61 innings, in which he averages an ordinary 37 and has notched up only three centuries—numbers way below the lofty standards he had set during his peak years.
However, given the history of Pakistan cricket, this may not be the last time that Babar has led the national side, and it may not also be the last time that he’s stepped down.
Pakistan’s next limited-overs series is in Australia next month, when they will face the Aussies in three T20Is and as many ODIs. They are scheduled to host the Champions Trophy 2025 early next year.
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