Babar Azam refuses captaincy once again: reports

ISLAMABAD: In a recent development, reports indicate that the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is contemplating reinstating Babar Azam as captain, as per multiple sources.

However, sources have clarified that Babar Azam is hesitant to resume the role following the mishandling of his removal as Pakistan’s skipper during his previous tenure.

Sources suggest that Babar seeks certain assurances before agreeing to reclaim the captaincy and is currently engaged in discussions with the PCB.

Previously, PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi hinted at the possibility of a change in captaincy before the T20I World Cup during a press conference in Lahore.

Allegedly, Shaheen Afridi’s subpar performances as captain during the New Zealand series and Pakistan Super League (PSL) 9 have prompted the management to reconsider appointing Babar Azam as the team’s skipper before the T20 World Cup.

Initially, Mohammad Rizwan appeared to be the frontrunner due to his exceptional captaincy and performances in the PSL, leading his franchise Multan Sultans to a fourth consecutive final. However, Babar Azam has seemingly emerged as a contender out of nowhere.

Babar Azam was relieved of captaincy in white-ball cricket after the ICC ODI World Cup in November, subsequently stepping down as skipper of Pakistan’s Test side, paving the way for Shan Masood.

Furthermore, two players, Imad Wasim and Mohammad Amir, have ended their retirements, with reports suggesting strained relations between them and Babar Azam.

It remains to be seen how the dynamics between Imad Wasim, Babar Azam, and Mohammad Amir unfold, particularly given the open criticism of Babar’s performance and leadership on national television by the two players.

Read more: Babar Azam to get Pakistan captain role again?

Although Babar Azam led Pakistan to the semifinals in the T20I World Cup of 2021 and the final in Australia two years ago, the question remains whether his return as captain will benefit Pakistan or lead to further internal strife. Only time will provide the answer.