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The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) finds itself embroiled in controversy following a contentious press release criticizing Babar Azam after Pakistan‘s defeat to Afghanistan in the ODI World Cup 2023. The aftermath of Babar’s resignation from the all-format captaincy sparked debates about the fairness of the board’s treatment of the star batter.
Pakistan’s CWC 2023 performance
Pakistan‘s disappointing World Cup campaign, marked by four wins and five defeats in the league stage, led to their failure to reach the semi-finals, ultimately finishing in fifth place. Despite being among the pre-tournament favourites, the team’s underwhelming performance raised questions about leadership and selection choices.
PCB’s earlier press release criticizing Babar Azam
The PCB’s post-match press release after the side’s defeat against inexperienced Afghanistan, while encouraging fans to support the team, drew significant backlash for its specific mention of captain Babar and chief selector Inzamam-ul-Haq having the players they desired. The statement prompted criticism, with concerns about its potential impact on Babar’ss reputation.
“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. 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 press release reads.
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Clarification from the Director of Media at PCB
Aalia Rasheed, the Director of Media at PCB, has defended the board’s stance, asserting that their intention was neither to tarnish the Pakistan stalwart reputation nor to attribute the defeat solely to him.
“One thing I want to make clear is that the PCB never, for once, criticised Babar Azam or the team during the World Cup nor did they try to hold Azam responsible for the losses,” Aalia was quoted as saying by Hindustan Times.
New captains taking the charge
In the wake of these developments, Pakistan cricket is undergoing a shift, appointing Shaheen Afridi as the new T20I captain and Shan Masood as the new Test captain, signaling a new direction for the team.
