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· Alex Sarwar

Babar Azam Resigns as Pakistan Captain

Babar Azam Resigns as Pakistan Captain
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Following the conclusion of the 2023 ICC Cricket World Cup group stage, Babar Azam has announced his resignation as captain of Pakistan in all formats. He will however, carry on playing for his country.

Since the announcement, Shan Masood has been named captain of the Pakistan Test team and Shaheen Shah Afridi skipper of the T20i side by the Pakistan Cricket Board.

The 29-year-old released a statement on his official social media platforms, making public the decision and his reasons for resigning. This is coming off the back of a disappointing World Cup campaign which saw Pakistan fail to reach the semi-finals after winning just four of their nine group matches.

“Over the past four years, I've experienced many highs and lows on and off the field, but I wholeheartedly and passionately aimed to maintain Pakistan's pride and respect in the cricket world.

“Reaching the number 1 spot in the white-ball format was a result of the collective efforts of players, coaches, and management, but I'd like to express my gratitude to passionate Pakistan cricket fans for their unwavering support during this journey.

“Today, I am stepping down as the captain of Pakistan in all formats. It's a difficult decision but I feel it is a right time for this call."

After first being named captain of the Pakistan T20i side, Babar was appointed ODI skipper in May 2020, replacing Sarfaraz Ahmed before taking over leadership of the Test team six months later, thus officially becoming captain in all formats.

Still one of the best batters in the world today, Babar will remain a crucial player for Pakistan in all facets of the game moving forward and his statement reaffirmed his commitment to his country and to supporting the new captain.

“I will continue to represent Pakistan as a player in all three formats. I am here to support the new captain and the team with my experience and dedication.”

The Pakistan Cricket Board has moved fast to fill two of the vacant three roles, with top order batter Shan Masood appointed Test captain and fast bowler Shaheen Shah Afridi T20i captain. The new ODI captain has yet to be announced.

Pakistan boasted a 64.63% win ratio in ODI cricket under Babar’s leadership and a 64.61% win ratio in T20i’s. His full captaincy record in all formats is below.

Test Cricket – Played 20, Won 10, Lost 6, Drawn 4

ODI Cricket – Played 42, Won 26, Lost 14

T20i Cricket – Played 71, Won 42, Lost 23

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