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Pakistan star batter Babar Azam has stepped down as white ball skipper ahead of Champions Trophy 2025. The reason behind his decision to leave captaincy has been revealed. There were rumours that he had been sacked from captaincy citing team's poor outing in the T20 World Cup 2024.
However, this is not hundred per cent true as their white ball coach Gary Kirsten had expressed a keen interest in retaining him as the ODI leader but he was looking for a change in T20I captaincy since the team's poor performance in the USA.
As per Cricket Pakistan, Kirsten presented his T20 World Cup report and discussed captaincy changes with Babar Azam.
"During a meeting in July, Kirsten presented his T20 World Cup report and discussed captaincy changes with Babar Azam. Despite Kirsten's continued efforts to persuade Babar to lead the ODI team, the batter was not convinced due to feelings of distance from the players and a sense of undervaluation" reported Cricket Pakistan.
"Sources indicate that after the World Cup, there was a lack of communication between Babar Azam and the cricket board. The cricketer was not involved in any consultation processes during this time. Before announcing his resignation, Babar informed a senior board official of his decision" added Cricket Pakistan.
Babar took his 'X' to announce that he is stepping down as Pakistan white ball captain because he wants to prioritize his performance, enjoy his batting, and spend quality time with his family.
"It's been an honour to lead this team, but it's time for me to step down and focus on my playing role. Captaincy has been a rewarding experience, but it's added a significant workload. I want to prioritize my performance, enjoy my batting, and spend quality time with my family, which brings me joy. By stepping down, I will gain clarity moving forward and focus more energy on my game and personal growth. I'm grateful for your unwavering support and belief in me. Your enthusiasm has meant the world to me. I'm proud of what we've achieved together and excited to continue contributing to the team as a player. Thank you for your love and support" posted Babar.
Pakistan are currently preparing for the Test series against England which is scheduled to start from October 7. England have already arrived in Pakistan for the series.
