Babar Azam, the star Pakistan cricket team batter, is back in the captaincy conversation, but on his own terms. After being stripped of the captaincy in all formats following a disappointing World Cup 2023 campaign, Azam is reportedly demanding a return to leadership across all three formats – Tests, ODIs, and T20Is.
Babar Azam wants more from PCB
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) recently offered Babar Azam the T20I captaincy, a role currently held by Shaheen Shah Afridi. However, Azam has not accepted, seeking a reinstatement as captain in all formats. This has sparked debate among fans, with some calling him “selfish” for demanding a complete return.
Shaheen Afridi short-lived captaincy
Shaheen Afridi’s stint as T20I captain appears to be over before it truly began. Appointed after Azam’s removal, his leadership resulted in a 4-1 series defeat against New Zealand and a disappointing showing with his PSL team, Lahore Qalandars.
This, coupled with the PCB’s change in leadership, led to a swift loss of faith in his captaincy potential.
Babar Azam demand puts Shan Masood Test Captaincy at risk
Babar Azam’s demand for full captaincy puts current Test skipper Shan Masood in a precarious position. Though Masood’s lone series in charge ended in a 3-0 loss to Australia, his aggressive approach was praised.
However, if Azam’s demands are met, Masood’s tenure as captain could be short-lived.
PCB Leadership Turmoil
This captaincy saga highlights the instability within the PCB. Multiple chief selectors and selection committees have come and gone in the past 18 months. The latest selection committee, with no designated leader, relies on a voting system for decision-making.
This lack of clear direction has also hampered the search for a new head coach, with prominent names like Shane Watson and Mike Hesson rejecting the offer. Talks with Jason Gillespie and Gary Kirsten are ongoing.
Crucial Series for Pakistan Cricket Team
Pakistan’s next series, a five-match T20I series against New Zealand in April, looms large. If the PCB agrees to Azam’s terms, he is expected to lead the side.
With a new selection committee and head coach search still ongoing, Pakistan cricket finds itself at a crossroads, and this upcoming series could be a defining moment for both the team and its leadership.
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