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In the aftermath of Pakistan’s premature exit from the ODI World Cup 2023, Babar Azam announced his withdrawal from the captaincy across all formats. The decision followed Pakistan’s inability to secure a spot in the semi-finals, concluding the tournament in the fifth position.
Babar Azam’s captaincy legacy
Notably, Babar initially took on the T20I captaincy in October 2019, extending his leadership responsibilities to ODIs in May 2020, and eventually captaining across all formats. Babar’s tenure as captain saw Pakistan’s ascent to the top of the ODI rankings. The team reached the T20 World Cup semi-finals in 2021 and secured a runner-up finish in the subsequent year’s final.
Appointment of new captains
In the wake of Babar’s decision to step down, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) swiftly appointed two new captains. Fast bowler Shaheen Afridi was named the T20I skipper, while Shaan Masood took over the reins as the Test captain.
Shaheen Afridi’s reaction after taking the big responsibility
Expressing his feelings on social media platform ‘X’, (formerly Twitter), Shaheen conveyed his honor and thrill at being named Pakistan’s new T20 captain. He expressed gratitude to the Pakistan Cricket Board and the fans for their trust and support, pledging to give his best to uphold the team spirit and bring glory to the nation on the cricket field.
“I am honored and thrilled to lead our national T20 cricket team. Thank you to the Pakistan cricket board and fans for their trust and support. I’ll give my best to uphold the team spirit and bring glory to our nation on the cricket field. Our success lies in unity, trust and relentless effort. We are not just a team; we are a brotherhood, a family. Together, we rise!,” Shaheen posted on ‘X’.
Also READ: Babar Azam steps down as Pakistan cricket team’s captain from all formats; shares a heartfelt note
I am honoured and thrilled to lead our national T20 cricket team. Thank you to the Pakistan cricket board and fans for their trust and support.
I'll give my best to uphold the team spirit and bring glory to our nation on the cricket field.
Our success lies in unity, trust and…— Shaheen Shah Afridi (@iShaheenAfridi) November 16, 2023
A decent captaincy record in PSL
Notably, Shaheen has a successful track record as a captain in the Pakistan Super League (PSL), leading Lahore Qalandars to consecutive titles in 2022 and 2023. This experience positions Shaheen as a seasoned leader, instilling confidence in his ability to guide the national T20 side.
