After Babar Azam’s resignation from captaincy in all formats, Shaheen Afridi will take the helm for Pakistan’s T20Is, while Shan Masood will assume the role of Test skipper, swiftly appointed by the PCB.
Babar Azam officially relinquished his captaincy across all formats for Pakistan, a decision that was confirmed on Wednesday, November 15th. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) swiftly appointed replacements, with Shaheen Shah Afridi taking the helm for T20Is and Shan Masood assuming the responsibility for Test cricket.
PCB’s announcement via social media clarified their initial desire for Babar to continue leading the Test team. However, Babar elected to step away from the captaincy role, choosing instead to focus primarily on his batting.
Pakistan faced setbacks in nine World Cup matches, losing five, notably to Afghanistan, prompting scrutiny of Babar’s leadership. Criticism spurred calls for change, leading PCB’s management head, Zaka Ashraf, to review the team’s performance. Babar shared his decision of resignation on his social media handle.
— Babar Azam (@babarazam258) November 15, 2023
New Test skipper Masood boasts 1597 runs in 30 games. Afridi, the T20I captain, holds an impressive record of 64 wickets in 52 matches, highlighting his prowess in the format.
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
This move marks a strategic shift, as Babar Azam will now contribute to the team as a specialized batter, aiming to maximize his impact in the matches ahead.
Last Updated on November 15, 2023
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