The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is contemplating reinstating Babar Azam as captain ahead of the forthcoming ICC T20 World Cup 2024, slated to begin on June 2. This move follows Babar’s resignation as Pakistan’s white-ball skipper after their disappointing performance in the 2023 ICC Cricket World Cup in India. Consequently, Shaheen Afridi took over the reins of Pakistan’s T20 squad.
Shaheen’s appointment was influenced by his successful leadership with Lahore Qalandars in the Pakistan Super League, clinching titles in 2021 and 2023. However, his leadership debut for Pakistan ended poorly with a 4-1 series loss to New Zealand. Recent reports suggest that Babar is now the frontrunner for captaincy reinstatement, with PCB officials nearing a decision.
Mohammad Rizwan was initially considered a strong candidate to replace Shaheen, alongside Babar. However, recent developments indicate Babar as the primary contender. Babar’s decision to step down from both white-ball and red-ball captaincy roles led to Shan Masood taking over the Test captaincy.
Babar Azam to play a key role for Pakistan
Pakistan’s recent struggles include a Test series whitewash in Australia and a T20I series loss to New Zealand. The change in PCB leadership, with Mohsin Naqvi succeeding Zaka Ashraf as chairman, adds to the context. Naqvi hinted at a possible change in T20 captaincy during a recent press conference in Lahore.
However, reports suggest Babar may be hesitant to resume the role. Additionally, the potential return of Imad Wasim and Mohammad Amir from international retirement could impact team dynamics.
As both players previously criticized Babar’s captaincy and batting in the T20 format. In summary, the PCB is deliberating Babar Azam’s reinstatement as captain ahead of the T20 World Cup, considering his previous leadership experience and the team’s recent performance issues.
However, challenges remain, including potential resistance from Babar himself and the possible return of outspoken critics Imad Wasim and Mohammad Amir to the squad.
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