Babar Azam steps down as Pakistan captain after World Cup debacle
PTC News Desk: Babar Azam on Wednesday announced his decision to step down as Pakistan captain from all formats of the game after his team's disastrous campaign in the ICC World Cup 2023 in India.
The 28-year-old player has stepped down as captain of the team in all formats, as announced in a statement on X.
"I vividly remember the moment when I received the call from the PCB to lead Pakistan in 2019. Over the last four years, I've experienced many highs and lows on and off the field, but I wholeheartedly and passionately aimed to maintain Pakistan's pride and respect in the cricket world," Babar said.
"Reaching the No.1 spot in the white-ball format was a result of the collective efforts of players, coaches, and management, but I'd like to express my gratitude to passionate Pakistan cricket fans for their unwavering support during this journey," he further said.
"Today, I'm stepping down as the captain of Pakistan across all formats. It's a difficult decision, but I feel it is the right time for this call. I want to express my sincere thanks to the Pakistan Cricket Board for entrusting me with this significant responsibility," the player added.
During Babar's tenure, Pakistan rose to the top of the ODI rankings. The Babar Azam-led team finished their disastrous World Cup campaign with a 93-run defeat to England.
Babar led Pakistan to fifth place in the ICC World Cup in India, finishing with eight points from nine matches. Babar scored 320 runs in nine World Cup matches, ranking third for Pakistan, with an average of 40 and a strike rate of 82.90.
Pakistan lost five of their nine matches, including one by seven wickets to arch-rival India.
Morne Morkel resigned as Pakistan Men's team bowling coach earlier this week. In June of this year, the former South African fast bowler signed a six-month contract with Pakistan.
- ANI
