“Babar Azam’s Decision to Step Down as Captain Was His Own” – PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi Clarifies

Following Pakistan’s challenging run post-ICC Men’s ODI World Cup 2023, Babar Azam’s resignation as captain has been a topic of heated debate. The Men in Green have been struggling with inconsistent performances and internal issues, leaving both fans and critics with questions. Babar had initially stepped down as Pakistan’s all-format captain last year after the…


"Babar Azam’s Decision to Step Down as Captain Was His Own" – PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi Clarifies

Following Pakistan’s challenging run post-ICC Men’s ODI World Cup 2023, Babar Azam’s resignation as captain has been a topic of heated debate. The Men in Green have been struggling with inconsistent performances and internal issues, leaving both fans and critics with questions.

Babar had initially stepped down as Pakistan’s all-format captain last year after the team’s semi-final exit in the World Cup. However, with leadership changes within the PCB, he was reappointed as captain for the T20 World Cup 2024. Despite his return, Pakistan failed to advance from the group stage, prompting the 30-year-old batter to resign from the captaincy once again.

Mohsin Naqvi on Babar’s Contribution and His Decision to Step Down

Amid speculation that the PCB pressured Babar into stepping down, Chairman Mohsin Naqvi set the record straight during a press conference in Lahore on October 27. He stressed that Babar’s decision to resign was entirely personal, and that no one within the PCB had pushed him to do so.

Babar is an asset for Pakistan. He reached out to me personally, expressing that he no longer wanted to continue as captain. Let me be clear—this was his decision, and no one within the PCB pressured him,

Naqvi stated, adding that Babar consulted with his coaches and peers before making the choice.

Naqvi went on to explain that Babar’s main focus is on regaining his form, and stepping down as captain was a step toward allowing him to fully concentrate on his batting.

He wants to dedicate himself to his game, and we all hope he will quickly find his form and return to his best,

Naqvi added.


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Mohammad Rizwan Takes Over as White-Ball Captain

With Babar’s departure from the captaincy, Mohammad Rizwan has been appointed Pakistan’s new white-ball captain, with Agha Salman named as vice-captain. Rizwan’s first assignment in this role will be leading the team in the upcoming ODI series against Australia, starting at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.