Babar Azam resigns as Pakistan captain in all formats

Babar asserts his commitment to represent Pakistan across all three formats, while Shan Masood emerges as the leading candidate to assume the role of Test captain.

Babar Azam has chosen to step down as the captain of the Pakistan cricket team in all formats after their disappointing performance in the 2023 ODI World Cup, where they fell short of qualifying for the semi-finals with only four victories in nine matches.

In a statement addressing his decision, Babar reflected on the journey since he assumed the captaincy in 2019, acknowledging the highs and lows both on and off the field. Despite the collective efforts that led to Pakistan's No. 1 spot in white-ball cricket, he expressed gratitude to the passionate cricket fans for their steadfast support. Babar emphasized his dedication to continuing to play for Pakistan in all three formats, pledging support to the new captain and the team.

Highlighting the difficulty of the decision, Babar thanked the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) for entrusting him with the captaincy. During the World Cup, he contributed significantly, scoring 320 runs in nine matches – the third-highest for Pakistan – with an average of 40 and a strike rate of 82.90.

While no official announcement has been made regarding a successor, Shan Masood is widely anticipated to assume the Test captaincy promptly. Reports suggest Masood was present at the Gaddafi Stadium today, further fueling speculation about his imminent appointment.

Shortly after Babar Azam's resignation, the PCB released a statement indicating that he was given the choice to continue as Test captain, while the decision to replace him as the skipper for white-ball cricket was presented as a done deal. Following consultation with his family, Babar chose to step down, a decision fully supported by the PCB, which respects and stands behind his choice. The statement reiterated the board's commitment to supporting Babar as a player.

Zaka Ashraf, speaking on behalf of the PCB, praised Babar Azam as a world-class player, expressing the board's desire for him to thrive in his role. Emphasizing Babar's significance as one of Pakistan's finest batsmen, Ashraf affirmed the board's ongoing support for him.

Speculation regarding Babar's future had been escalating since Pakistan's lackluster World Cup exit, though consensus on a potential replacement remained elusive. The situation was further complicated by uncertainty surrounding the PCB setup's authority to dismiss the Pakistan captain. While Zaka Ashraf, currently serving as the PCB chairman, had extended his role temporarily, a court ruling in Pakistan challenged the committee's power to make significant changes during their tenure. The court specified that the committee should operate solely on a caretaker basis, and the removal of a Pakistan captain was widely perceived as beyond the committee's jurisdiction.

Following an extended meeting at the PCB headquarters discussing the future of the Pakistan captain and coaching staff, Babar chose to step down. Although he didn't provide a specific reason, he mentioned feeling that the timing was appropriate.

According to ESPNcricinfo sources, it is anticipated that Pakistan team director Mickey Arthur and head coach Grant Bradburn will not face dismissal. However, their roles are expected to undergo a substantial reduction, with neither likely to be included in the traveling contingent for Pakistan's upcoming tour – a three-match Test series in Australia commencing next month. The extent of the management committee's authority in this matter is also recognized as limited.

Official announcements regarding replacements in the coaching setup for the upcoming Australia tour have not been made. However, speculations suggest that Mohammad Hafeez, Wahab Riaz, and Younis Khan may be included in the traveling contingent in some managerial capacity. Zaka Ashraf held meetings with all three recently, though the purpose of these meetings was not officially disclosed. If any of them assume coaching or managerial roles for the Australia tour, it is expected to be on an ad-hoc basis, as permanent coaching appointments are likely beyond the current management committee's authority.

Pakistan is scheduled to depart for Australia on November 30, with a warm-up game against the Prime Minister's XI at Manuka Oval from December 6 to 9. The first Test is set to commence in Perth on December 14, followed by a series of five T20Is in New Zealand.

While there is no official confirmation on the T20 captain, sources indicate that Shaheen Afridi is the leading candidate for the role.