Pakistan cricket has been the epicenter of a major upheaval in the last one week. The developments that can be deemed as shocking have seen leadership changes, player comebacks and administrative discussions. With the T20 World Cup fast approaching there seems to be an urgency within Pakistan Cricket to find the right balance and the right leader to steer the ship.
Babar Azam reinstated as Pakistan captain in white-ball cricket
Starting with the captaincy, Babar Azam has been reinstated as the captain of the Pakistan cricket team in the white-ball format. The decision comes after Shaheen Afridi lost his maiden series as captain of the Pakistan T20I captain. Under Afridi's leadership, Pakistan suffered a 4-1 series defeat against New Zealand in a five-match T20I series.
Shaheen Afridi disappointed with the PCB
The earlier reports surrounding captaincy change led to Afridi expressing dissatisfaction with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), feeling overlooked and excluded from critical discussions regarding the team's future, including the upcoming T20 World Cup and coaching appointments.
Shaheen Afridi loses T20I captaincy
The PCB, under the chairmanship of Mohsin Naqvi, has been actively engaging in discussions to reshape the team's strategy and leadership ahead of the T20 World Cup. Meetings with Babar Azam and other selectors have been focused on the appointment of coaches and strategizing for the future of Pakistan cricket. Amid these discussions, Afridi felt sidelined, leading to his evident frustration and eventual removal from the captaincy role.
Imad Wasim comes out of retirement
Pakistan cricket has witnessed the return of two prominent players from retirement, adding to the week's whirlwind of events. Imad Wasim announced his decision to come out of retirement and make himself available for the T20Is after discussions with PCB officials.
Mohammad Amir takes U-turn on retirement
Imad Wasim's announcement was closely followed by Mohammad Amir, who also reversed his retirement decision, expressing a desire to be considered for the T20 World Cup squad.
The reappointment of Babar Azam as the T20I and ODI team captain signifies the PCB's trust in his leadership skills and experience. This decision aligns with the board's broader vision to stabilise and strengthen the team's performance on the international stage, especially in anticipation of the T20 World Cup.
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