Naqvi reappointed Babar Azam as the captain of the national cricket team
Islamabad (Mohsin Ali): Naqvi reappointed Babar Azam as the captain of the national cricket team. Congratulations to Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi for destroying the atmosphere of Pakistan cricket team by reappointing Babar as captain.
In a surprising move, Naqvi reappointed Babar Azam as the captain of the national cricket team. This decision has been met with significant backlash, with many criticizing Babar’s performance as a captain over the past three years. Critics argue that both Babar’s individual performance and the team’s overall results have deteriorated during his tenure, yet Naqvi seems determined to restore him to leadership.
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Babar Azam’s reappointment is not the only controversial decision by Naqvi. He has also brought back cricketers like Mohammad Amir, Razzaq, and Wahab Riaz, raising eyebrows across the cricketing community. Amir’s return, in particular, has been contentious due to his recent criticisms of the team and key players like Babar and Shaheen Afridi during the ODI World Cup in India. Razzaq has also been in the spotlight for his inappropriate comments about female cricketers and Babar.
Naqvi, who serves as both Interior Minister and Senator, has limited experience in cricket and is often preoccupied with his political responsibilities. This lack of focus on cricket has been a point of concern, especially given his significant influence on team selections and management. Wahab Riaz’s multiple roles within the team, including selector for both male and female teams and senior manager, have further complicated matters. His sudden support for Babar’s captaincy, after previously playing a role in his removal, has only added to the confusion and unrest within the team.
The removal of Shaheen Afridi from the captaincy has reportedly created a rift within the squad. Shaheen’s recent performances, especially with the bat, suggest his dissatisfaction with the current leadership decisions. The repetitive excuses from Babar and PCB officials about being “10 to 20 runs short” and “still learning” have worn thin among fans and analysts alike. The team’s inability to adapt to modern cricket’s aggressive playing style, particularly in power plays, has been a glaring issue.
Under Babar’s leadership, Pakistan has struggled to set competitive totals, often failing to last the full 20 overs. Pakistan cricket team holds worst record of being bowled out inside 20 overs, which is a shame for the PCB and Babar alike who make tall claims. The PCB and their yes men are always in a state of denial as they never admit, accept and correct their mistakes and rather try to hush up things. This poor performance was highlighted when a weak New Zealand team managed to draw a series in Pakistan, and even a low-ranked Irish team won the first T20 match before losing the series 1-2.
Pakistan’s recent matches have predominantly been against weaker sides, with top teams sending their B squads. Despite this, Babar and his supporters claim success by pointing to semifinal and final appearances in tournaments like the WT20 and Asia Cup. However, critics argue that these results were more due to luck than skillful play.
The return of Mohammad Amir has been particularly contentious. Amir’s performance has declined, and he has failed to deliver breakthroughs. His presence in the squad has often forced more promising bowlers like Abbas, Wasim Junior, Zaman, and even Naseem Shah to sit out. Similarly, Azam Khan’s inclusion despite his fitness issues and poor fielding has raised questions. In the presence of Muhammad Rizwan he doesn’t warrant a place in the playing XI at all. Shadab Khan’s focus on batting over bowling has also been criticized, with many feeling he no longer merits a place in the team while Abrar Ahmad also sits out just to accommodate Shadab.
With the T20 World Cup on the horizon, Pakistan are set to start their campaign against the USA, a team that recently defeated Bangladesh. Given the USA’s recent performance, Pakistan cannot afford to take them lightly. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, the Patron of PCB, should appoint someone with deep cricketing knowledge and experience to lead the board. Naqvi should focus on his political responsibilities and leave cricket management to those who are passionate about and experienced in the sport.
The performance of the Pakistan women’s team has also been lacklustre, yet it appears to receive little attention from Naqvi. If substantial changes are not made soon, Pakistan may face even greater challenges in upcoming ICC events, potentially having to play in qualifying rounds to secure a spot. The writter is a senior sports journalist and can be reached at mohsinaliisb@gmail.com
Naqvi reappointed Babar Azam as the captain of the national cricket team
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