Babar Azam set to return as captain in T20I, check reports

The dynamics of leadership within the Pakistan cricket team have been under scrutiny as Shaheen Shah Afridi’s brief tenure as T20I captain draws to a close. With Babar Azam, the incumbent white-ball skipper, offered the reins once again, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) finds itself at a pivotal juncture in its quest for stability and success on the international stage.

Babar Azam Offered White-Ball Captaincy

Recent developments within the PCB indicate a shift in leadership as Babar Azam is approached to resume his role as the captain of Pakistan’s white-ball cricket teams. Mohsin Naqvi, the PCB chairman, personally extended the offer to Babar, signaling a potential change in the team’s leadership structure.

Afridi’s Leadership Struggles

Shaheen Shah Afridi’s tenure as T20I captain has been marred by challenges both on and off the field. Despite showing promise as a young leader, Afridi faced criticism for his handling of the team during the recent T20I series against New Zealand, where Pakistan suffered a disappointing 4-1 defeat. Additionally, his franchise, Lahore Qalandars’ dismal performance in the Pakistan Super League (PSL) further raised doubts about his leadership capabilities.

While Babar Azam remains a central figure in Pakistan’s cricketing landscape, his acceptance of the captaincy offer is contingent upon certain conditions. Following his resignation as captain across all formats after Pakistan’s lackluster performance in the 2023 ODI World Cup, Babar has expressed his desire to lead the team in all three formats or not at all.

Selection Committee Arrangement

The current selection committee setup introduces a unique approach to decision-making, with a panel of selectors making choices through a voting process. This arrangement aims to ensure a collaborative and transparent selection process, albeit with its own set of challenges and intricacies.

There are four selectors – Wahab Riaz, Asad Shafiq, Abdul Razzaq and Mohammad Yousuf – with no chief selector. They will be joined by the Pakistan captain and coach – both yet to be appointed – and a data analyst. Selection decisions will be made by vote, with 4-3 majorities carrying the day.

Next Series: Pakistan vs New Zealand

As Pakistan prepares to face New Zealand in their upcoming series, all eyes will be on Babar Azam as he potentially resumes his role as captain. With the series serving as a litmus test for the team’s resilience and cohesion, Babar’s leadership will be crucial in guiding Pakistan to success on the field.