On Tuesday, Babar Azam revealed that he has chosen to step down from his role as captain of the Pakistan cricket team.
In a message shared on X, Babar stated, “I’ve decided to resign from the position of captain for the Pakistan men’s cricket team, effective from when I informed the PCB and Team Management last month.”
He expressed that leading the team had been a privilege, but he now feels it’s time to relinquish the captaincy and focus on his role as a player.
Babar acknowledged that while the captaincy experience had been fulfilling, it had also increased his burden.
“I want to shift my attention towards my performance, take pleasure in my batting, and spend more time with my family, which is a source of happiness for me.”
He explained that by stepping away from the leadership role, he would be able to focus more clearly on his game and personal development.
He also expressed his gratitude for the constant encouragement and trust placed in him.
“Your support has been invaluable. I’m proud of what we’ve accomplished together, and I look forward to contributing as a player.”
Babar had previously returned to the role of captain in March when the PCB assigned him leadership duties in ODIs and T20s as part of their strategic planning.
Initially appointed as the T20 captain in 2019, Babar later took charge of the ODI and Test teams in 2020.
He stepped down in November last year following Pakistan’s poor performances in the Asia Cup and 50-over World Cup, with Shaheen Shah Afridi taking over as T20 captain and Shan Masood becoming Test captain.
