Shoaib Malik & Babar Azam | Source: X.com
Veteran Pakistan all-rounder Shoaib Malik has called for Babar Azam to relinquish the captaincy and refocus on his batting. This comes after Pakistan’s disappointing exit from the group stage of the T20 World Cup 2024.
Pakistan‘s performance in the tournament was heavily criticized, with unconvincing wins against weaker teams and crucial losses against the USA and India leading to their early exit. This has sparked debate amongst fans and experts alike.
Speaking on Ten Sports Pakistan, Shoaib Malik suggested that stepping down would benefit both Babar Azam and the team.
“I think I would immediately resign from the captaincy and focus on my cricket,” he said, referencing a similar decision he made in his own career. “Babar’s numbers reflect that as well. If he can improve, be better for the country, then do it.”
“Babar has captained in a significant number of matches, but hasn’t been able to win any major ICC tournaments. He hasn’t even rested himself in white-ball matches, which is a big question mark.”
Babar Azam, however, appears to have a different stance. At the post-tournament press conference, he avoided questions about his captaincy, stating that the decision lies completely on the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).
Only time will tell what the future holds for Babar Azam’s captaincy. However, with the weight of a disappointing World Cup exit and a veteran’s advice on his shoulders, the decision is sure to be a crucial one for both him and Pakistan cricket.
