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Pakistan’s white-ball coach Gary Kirsten and assistant coach Azhar Mahmood arrived in Lahore on July 8 for critical discussions about potential changes within the Pakistan cricket team. Among the topics under review is the future leadership role of Babar Azam as captain.
Kirsten’s visit follows Pakistan’s disappointing performance in the recent ICC T20 World Cup 2024. The team, referred to as the Men in Green, exited the tournament in the league stage with only two victories from four matches in Group A.
In response to Pakistan’s lackluster campaign in the T20 World Cup 2024, Kirsten and Pakistan selector Wahab Riaz compiled comprehensive reports on the team’s performance. These reports were subsequently submitted to Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Mohsin Naqvi for evaluation and consideration.
Gary Kirsten’s cryptic smile fuels speculation about Babar Azam’s captaincy amid PCB review.
This report delved into various facets such as player fitness, discipline, game awareness, and Babar’s leadership struggles during the tournament, slated for review by Naqvi soon. Former Pakistani cricketers have been vocal about their criticisms of Babar’s captaincy.
The upcoming discussions are expected to focus heavily on Babar’s tenure as the white-ball captain when Kirsten and the selectors convene with the PCB chief. The PCB is contemplating significant measures to rectify the team’s recent underperformance.
Kirsten’s recent arrival in Lahore is pivotal as he plays a key role in decisions regarding Babar’s future as the white-ball captain and strategical adjustments aimed at team improvement.
In a recent viral video, Gary Kirsten was seen exiting the airport when a reporter queried about Babar Azam’s captaincy prospects. Kirsten’s response—a smile and a nod—has stirred speculation among cricket enthusiasts. Many interpret his gesture as a positive indication that Babar is likely to retain his position as Pakistan’s white-ball captain.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is yet to finalize its decision regarding Babar Azam’s future as captain of the national team. In a recent statement to Cricket Pakistan, Naqvi indicated that no determination has been made thus far concerning Babar’s captaincy: “There is no decision taken so far related to Babar Azam.”
Recently, the PCB convened a significant meeting in Lahore with former cricketers to gather insights and recommendations aimed at enhancing Pakistan’s cricket infrastructure and improving performance at the international level.
With a substantial gap until Pakistan’s next white-ball series scheduled for November in Australia, the PCB has ample time to implement necessary reforms and is advised against making hasty decisions.
It is worth noting that Pakistan is preparing to host Bangladesh for a two-match Test series starting on August 21. Shan Masood will continue to lead Pakistan in Test cricket as they commence their home season with the series against Bangladesh.
