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Pakistan’s T20 World Cup 2024 campaign ended in heartbreak, deeply disappointing the country’s cricket community. Led by Babar Azam, the team suffered a devastating loss to the USA followed by defeat against rivals India, resulting in their early exit from the tournament. Former cricketers and captains have strongly criticized Babar, calling for his resignation and a complete overhaul of the team.
Meanwhile, Shoaib Akhtar, a former fast bowler, has criticized Pakistan’s team management for reinstating Babar as captain just before the T20 World Cup. Babar, 29, had stepped down from the captaincy following Pakistan’s disappointing performance in the 50-over World Cup in India last year. However, with new management in place ahead of the tournament in the USA and the West Indies, Babar was once again entrusted with the leadership role.
In an interview with PTV Sports, Akhtar criticized the management’s decision to reinstate Babar as captain of the Pakistan cricket team.
“Who made Babar Azam captain in the first place? Who was the ‘Einstein’ by the way? I need to know that guy. Did he actually qualify for the job or not? Did he even know a thing or two about captaincy,” questioned Akhtar.
The ex-fast bowler emphasized that Babar isn’t suited for captaincy, suggesting he should bat at No. 4 and focus on being a finisher for the team.
“I have been saying that Babar is not a captain material. What is going to happen to Babar now? He is going to come down at No.4. He has to finish the games. He has to win the games. If he doesn’t, he will not be able to keep his place in T20s. I am telling you right now. He will not be able to keep his place in ODIs because he has to finish the games. The ‘finisher’ Babar Azam needs to come out,” Akhtar said.
“That’s where his character comes out. That’s where the character of Babar Azam is gonna come out. In times to come, that kind of pressure, he needs to take. I am bluntly saying that to Babar, Babar you are going to remain a superstar but start and get to know how to finish the games,” he added.
Media reports indicate that PCB plans to return to its previous selection committee setup following the unsuccessful trial of operating without a chief selector during and before the T20 World Cup.
