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Pakistan's horrible T20 World Cup campaign which led to their early elimination from group stage has cast a shadow over Babar Azam's captaincy. Former Pakistan captain Younis Khan has even suggested a change in leadership for the limited-overs formats. Babar is a world-class batsman, a crucial asset for Pakistan. He was also recently reinstated as captain by the PCB, indicating their trust in him. However, the back-to-back early exits raise questions about his leadership capabilities. Critics, like Younis Khan, believe a change might be necessary. The future of Babar's captaincy remains uncertain. The PCB will analyze the World Cup performance and make a final decision. If Babar is replaced, who would take the captain's mantle is another question mark. Only time will tell what the future holds for Babar's leadership role.
Fakhar Zaman to replace Babar Azam as Pakistan captain?
Younis Khan threw his weight behind Fakhar Zaman as a potential captain for Pakistan, speaking to PTV Sports after their World Cup exit.
"Why can’t Fakhar Zaman be the captain of the side isn’t he a performer? Didn’t he do well in the last 50-over World Cup? Who is that one player who gave us hope? Zaman started the 2023 World Cup in India poorly however, in the second half turned his form around which coincided with Pakistan’s success. His blistering starts at the top kept Pakistan in contention however, it was too little too late for them to go further in the tournament," Younis said.
Babar has been at the helm of the Green Army since 2019. The team, once world champions, has also given Shadab Khan (6), Qasim Akram (3), and Shaheen Afridi (5) the opportunity to captain in several of the shortest format matches. Babar holds the record as Pakistan's most-capped captain in T20Is, having led the team in 85 matches. During his tenure, Pakistan has secured 48 victories and suffered 29 losses in T20 Internationals.
"Who is that one player in the side who is leaving his opening slot and batting down at four or five or six? Who is sacrificing his place? Fakhar Zaman! Why won’t you make him the captain?," Younis added.
Pakistan signed off T20 World Cup 2024 with a three-wicket win over Ireland on June 17. Facing questions about his captaincy after the World Cup exit, Babar Azam said he would talk to the PCB about his future and make a decision soon.
"When I gave up the captaincy (in 2023), I thought that I shouldn't be doing it now, that's why I left it and I announced it myself," Babar was quoted as saying by ESPNcricinfo.
"Then when they gave it back to me, it was the decision of the PCB. When I go back, we will discuss all that has happened here. And if I have to leave the captaincy, I will announce it openly. I will not hide behind anything. Whatever happens will happen in the open. But for now, I have not thought about it. It is eventually PCB's decision," he added.
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