(Source X)
Mohsin Naqvi, the chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), has commented on the future of Babar Azam as the captain of the Pakistan cricket team amidst significant scrutiny. Babar Azam has faced substantial criticism from experts and various quarters following Pakistan’s disappointing performance in the recently concluded T20 World Cup 2024.
During the tournament, Pakistan suffered defeats in their initial two matches against the USA and India, failing to progress to the Super 8 stage. The loss to the USA was particularly unexpected, considering Pakistan’s superior experience and favored status.
In the match against India, Pakistan initially appeared strong but faltered due to inadequate batting performance and effective bowling by India, resulting in their second consecutive loss.
Despite winning their last two group matches against Canada and Ireland, Pakistan fell short of qualifying by just one point behind the USA, leading to widespread disappointment among former cricketers and fans across the country.
Mohsin Naqvi, the chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), indicated during a press conference in Lahore that the decision regarding Babar Azam’s tenure as Pakistan’s captain will be determined by input from the country’s ex-cricketers and Gary Kirsten, the head coach for Pakistan’s white-ball cricket.
“A decision on Babar Azam’s captaincy will be made after consultation with former cricketers and white ball coach Gary Kirsten, says Mohsin Naqvi,” Faizan Lakhani, a journalist at Pakistan’s Geo News posted on X (formerly Twitter).
In addition to his leadership role, Babar Azam struggled to make a significant impact with the bat. Despite being his team’s top batter, he maintained a strike rate of just 101.66 across four matches in the tournament, which proved insufficient to bolster his team’s performance.
Naqvi also emphasized that he is specifically referring to former cricketers who have Pakistan’s best interests at heart. “I’m only speaking to those former cricketers who are interested in the betterment of Pakistan cricket,” Naqvi said.
“Hasty decisions can prove to be harmful” – Mohsin Naqvi
Following Pakistan’s exit from the tournament, Naqvi advocated for substantial reforms within Pakistan cricket. When questioned about his remarks, Naqvi emphasized that decisions should be made calmly and thoughtfully, without haste or emotion.
“People are asking about surgery but one should not take any decision while you are angry. Hasty decisions can prove to be harmful more often than not,” Naqvi replied.
The chairman of the PCB mentioned that they have been furnished with a comprehensive report from head coach Gary Kirsten, and steps will be taken promptly.
Whoever made wrong decisions in the selection committee will also be held accountable. (Gary) Kirsten has also submitted a detailed report on the Pakistan team’s performance in the T20 World Cup,” Naqvi added.
Pakistan’s upcoming international schedule includes a tour to Australia in November for an ODI and T20I series, followed by an extensive series in South Africa across all formats.
