Pakistan to Sack Babar Azam and Shan Masood; Rizwan to Take Over as All-Format Captain

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Read Original Content: Pakistan to Sack Babar Azam and Shan Masood; Rizwan to Take Over as All-Format Captain

It’s no exaggeration to say that Pakistan cricket has become a subject of ridicule, with its inconsistencies being highlighted time and again.

In yet another shocking development, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is reportedly preparing to sack Babar Azam, the current captain of Pakistan’s white-ball teams, and Shan Masood, the Test captain.

According to recent reports from Pakistan, the white-ball head coach of the Pakistan cricket team, Gary Kirsten, had discussions with the PCB as early as July regarding Mohammad Rizwan taking over as the all-format captain of the team.

Babar Azam’s Struggles: A Cause for Concern

Babar Azam, Pakistan’s white-ball captain, has been in poor form since the 2023 ODI World Cup. His underperformance has been significant, and the decision to potentially remove him from the white-ball captaincy could be a preemptive measure, allowing the team to drop him if his form does not improve.

Similarly, Shan Masood, who was appointed as Test captain after Babar Azam stepped down following the 2023 ODI World Cup, has also struggled to lead the team effectively. As a result, the PCB is likely to relieve him of his duties as well.

Drama in Pakistan Cricket

The turmoil doesn’t end there. Following the Test series defeat against Bangladesh, reports surfaced suggesting that the Pakistan dressing room is divided.

Former PCB chief Zaka Ashraf addressed the issue recently, stating:

“There were no differences between Babar Azam and Shaheen even after I decided to have the latter as the T20 captain. The unity didn’t end after removing Babar Azam as captain; in fact, it improved. When we told him to focus on playing, which is his strength, he agreed, acknowledging that his performance as a captain wasn’t satisfactory.”

Read Original Content: Pakistan to Sack Babar Azam and Shan Masood; Rizwan to Take Over as All-Format Captain

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