Babar Azam resigns from Pakistan captaincy after dismal 2023 ODI WC

Chandra Moulee Das

Earlier today, Babar took to his social media and announced the news.

In a recent development, Pakistan skipper Babar Azam have stepped down from captaincy after the team’s poor performance in the 2023 ODI World Cup in India. The Men in Green failed to make the cut for the semis, finishing fifth with 8 points and missing the spot by only 2 points.

Nevertheless, Pakistan has put up a lacklustre performance throughout the tournament and questions were raised against Babar Azam’s methods. While his team had a disappointing campaign, on a personal front, he scored 320 runs in nine matches during the World Cup – the third highest for Pakistan at an average of 40 and strike rate of 82.90.

Earlier today, Babar took to his social media and announced the news.

Shaheen Afridi and Shan Masood named new skippers

Pakistan has appointed Shaheen Shah Afridi as the new captain for T20Is while Shan Masood will take on the role of Test captain. This decision follows Babar Azam’s resignation from captaincy across all three formats. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has not yet announced an ODI captain, given the absence of scheduled ODIs in the near future.

Shortly after the resignation, the PCB issued a statement saying Babar was offered the option to continue as Test captain, while the decision to remove him as white-ball skipper was mentioned. “After consultation with his family, Babar decided to step down and PCB stands behind his decision. PCB respects his decision and continues to support him as a player,”

Shaheen Masood’s first assignment will be the challenging away series in Australia. Pakistan faces a significant historical challenge, having lost their last 14 consecutive Tests dating back to 1999, including five series whitewashes.

Afridi’s first test will come immediately after that three-Test series against Australia ends. Pakistan travel to New Zealand following the Tests in Australia to play five T20Is.

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