Table of Contents
Pakistan captain Babar Azam is currently facing the major scrutiny following his team’s below-par performance in the ODI World Cup 2023 in India. The Men in Green started off well after winning their first two games against the Netherlands and Sri Lanka. However, things went south when they took on arch-rivals India.
Pakistan suffered a significant setback, losing to India by 7 wickets, and they struggled to recover from this defeat as they faced subsequent losses to Australia and Afghanistan. As a result, they currently find themselves in the fifth position, making their path to the semi-finals a challenging one.
Consequently, there is a growing chorus of voices questioning Babar’s captaincy, with reports suggesting that he may be at risk of losing his leadership role.
PCB’s statement on Babar Azam’s captaincy
Amidst this growing controversy, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has issued a statement addressing the situation. The PCB acknowledges the concerns and emphasizes that success and setbacks are part of the game. They reiterate their support for Babar and Chief Selector Inzamam-ul-Haq, who were given the freedom to shape the World Cup squad.
Also READ: World Cup 2023 – Pakistan’s Babar Azam to be sacked from captaincy; three players picked to replace him
“Addressing the media scrutiny directed at captain Babar Azam and the team management, the board’s stance, echoing that of former cricketers, is that successes and defeats are part of the game. Captain Babar Azam and Chief Selector Inzamam-ul-Haq were given freedom and support in forming the squad for the ICC World Cup 2023,” said PCB in a statement.
Future decision-making
The PCB also affirmed that they will make decisions in the best interest of Pakistan cricket based on the team’s performance in the ongoing World Cup.
“Looking ahead, the board will make decisions in the best interest of Pakistan cricket based on the team’s performances in the World Cup. At present, the PCB encourages fans, former players and stakeholders to rally behind the team as they strive to make a triumphant comeback in the mega-event,” the statement added.
