Pakistan signed off with a win in a closely-fought game against Ireland on June 16. In the run chase of 107, Pakistan lost seven wickets but skipper Babar Azam’s patient knock and Shaheen Afridi’s cameo helped them with with seven balls to spare. After Pakistan’s second win at group stage, Babar was asked whether he would step down as captain after the team’s dismal show in the marquee event. The top-order batter left it for the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to decide.
"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 said. "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."
Team is responsible, not an individual
Babar was also asked whether he takes the responsibility of Pakistan getting knocked out of Super 8 race after losses to co-hosts USA and India. He believes that one individual cannot be blamed for team’s loss.
"I told you that we did not lose this because of one particular person. We win and lose as a team. You are pointing out that [I am] the captain, but I cannot play in every player's place. There are 11 players, and each of them has a role. That's why they came here to play the World Cup. I think we have not been able to play well as a team. We have to settle down and accept that we didn't play well as a team,” said the 29-year-old.
"We accept that we didn't play according to the expectations. The kind of team we had, the experience we had, we haven't been able to deliver at different times. As a player and as a captain, I am not going to single [anyone] out. The fault lies with all 15. We will sit and review. As a captain, my responsibility is to give my feedback to the decision-makers," he added.
Babar to bat at no.3 in T20Is?
After two losses, Babar left the opening spot and batted at no.3. Against Ireland, he remained unbeaten for 32 off 34 balls while wickets at the other end. Amidst criticism, Babar has left the decision on the team management whether they want him to open the innings in T20Is or bat at no.3.
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