Babar Azam announces his decision to resign as captain of the Pakistan cricket team in all forms. The announcement follows a meeting in Lahore with PCB Interim Management Committee Chairman Zaka Ashraf.
— Babar Azam (@babarazam258) November 15, 2023
While acknowledging the highs and lows of his tenure, Babar offers his appreciation to the fans, players, coaches, and management for their collaborative efforts.
The decision comes after Pakistan’s difficult World Cup campaign, which included losses to India and Afghanistan for the first time.
Meanwhile, Shan Masood appointed as Test captain, and Shaheen Shah Afridi as T20 captain, ushering in a new era in Pakistan cricket leadership.
Presenting our captains 🇵🇰@shani_official has been appointed Test captain while @iShaheenAfridi will lead the T20I side. pic.twitter.com/wPSebUB60m
— Pakistan Cricket (@TheRealPCB) November 15, 2023
Babar Azam expresses his desire to continue representing Pakistan as a batsman in all three formats. He offers his experience and dedication to the new captain and the team, pledging his support.
The PCB is thanked for giving him the captaincy, which marks the end of an era in Babar’s leadership role.
In response to Babar’s decision, cricketer Muhammad Rizwan described the batter as “unquestionably one of the greatest batsmen Pakistan has ever seen.”
Kaptaaana, aap Dilo k Kaptaan ho. You are definitely one of the greatest batsmen Pakistan has ever seen.
— Muhammad Rizwan (@iMRizwanPak) November 15, 2023
Your honesty, love, integrity, thoughts, and efforts for Pakistan as the captain are the things to look up to. May you continue to shine for Pakistan, Ameen. @babarazam258 🇵🇰 https://t.co/FuZOdyBR6U
“You did an amazing job Babar, Wahab Riaz praise Babar Azam. “As a player, you still have a long way to go and a lot more to achieve for Pakistan.” “Best wishes!” he exclaimed.
— Babar Azam (@babarazam258) November 15, 2023
Former all-rounder Mohammad Hafeez praised Babar’s captaincy. “Your ambition to score more runs undoubtedly contributed to the team’s success.” “Be well and blessed,” he said.
Really appreciate Ur services @babarazam258 as a captain of Pakistan Cricket. Surely ur hunger to get more runs contributing for winning matches for team will grow more with time. Stay healthy and blessed. https://t.co/FKY8SiZduo
— Mohammad Hafeez (@MHafeez22) November 15, 2023
Saeed Ajmal, an ex-cricketer, applauded Babar for his contributions as captain and for “taking Pakistan’s ODI team to the number one spot.”
Thank You so Much for all your services for Pakistan as a Captain✨ And for taking Pakistan’s ODI team to the No.1 spot👏🏼 I hope that You continue to score Runs for Pakistan even better than before. Keep smiling and Stay Fit. The Team needs you at your Best.@babarazam258… https://t.co/Lgi6TDrZIq
— Saeed Ajmal (@REALsaeedajmal) November 15, 2023
“End of an era for Pakistan,” proclaimed the International Cricket Council (ICC).
🚨 End of an era for Pakistan 🚨
— ICC (@ICC) November 15, 2023
Babar Azam’s captaincy tenure is no more 📝⬇️https://t.co/SiAt6UACQv
As the cricketing world recognizes the significance of Babar’s choice, the PCB begins its evaluation of Pakistan’s World Cup performance and preparations for the next Test series against Australia.
Similarly, Former players urge against major changes and underline the importance of red-ball cricket.
The dismissal earlier this week of bowling coach Morne Morkel adds to the changes in Pakistan’s backroom staff.
