Babar Azam Removed from Test Captaincy for Bangladesh Series Following Poor World Cup Performance

DTD-June 15, 2024

2 minutes read

Babar Azam Dropped to Ensure Long-Term Mental and Physical Fitness

Notably, during Zaka Ashraf’s tenure, players managed to secure salary increases through pressure tactics.

ISLAMABAD: In a surprising move, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has decided to relieve Babar Azam of his captaincy duties for the upcoming 2-Test home series against Bangladesh. This decision comes on the heels of Pakistan’s disappointing performance in the ICCT20 World Cup under Azam’s leadership.

PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi, acting on the advice of the 7-member selection committee, has appointed Shaheen Afridi as the new T20 team captain, while Babar Azam will continue to lead the white-ball team until the 2025 Champions Trophy.

Despite initial plans to have Azam captain the crucial 2-Test series against Bangladesh, which is part of the ICC Test Championship, the board has shifted its trust to Shan Masood. This strategic change is aimed at rejuvenating the team’s performance in the Test format.

In another significant development, Australian Test fast bowler Jason Gillespie is set to join the Test team as a coach, working alongside Shan Masood. The PCB is hopeful that this new leadership duo will steer the team towards better results in the upcoming series.

PCB to Re-Evaluate Central Contracts after Disappointing T20 World Cup Performance

LAHORE: In response to the national cricket team’s poor performance in the T20 World Cup, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has decided to re-evaluate the central contracts of national players. This move comes as the PCB aims to address the team’s overall performance issues.

Sources indicate that players who underperformed may face demotion or even removal from their central contracts. The current three-year contracts, initiated on July 1 last year, are under scrutiny due to the recent series of failures.

The national team has faced a string of defeats, including disappointing campaigns in the Asia Cup, ICC World Cup, and T20 World Cup, as well as unsuccessful tours in Australia and New Zealand.

Notably, during Zaka Ashraf’s tenure, players managed to secure salary increases through pressure tactics. However, despite the pay hikes, the team’s performance in major tournaments has been lackluster.

PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi, along with top officials, convened late into the night to deliberate on the team’s dismal performance and the future of the central contracts. Decisions regarding the players’ remunerations and contract status are expected soon as the PCB seeks to revamp the squad’s commitment and effectiveness.