Kuljyot Singh

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Babar Azam steps down as Pakistan captain across formats after ODI World Cup 2023
Pakistan Announce New Captains For T20Is, Tests; Babar Azam Steps Down Across Formats

In a recent development, the renowned Pakistani batsman and incumbent captain, Babar Azam, has made the decision to relinquish his captaincy across all formats. Following this significant announcement, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) promptly took to social media to announce Shan Masood as the new Test captain, and Shaheen Afridi has been appointed to lead the T20I side.

Babar Azam steps down as Pakistan captain across formats

Babar Azam penned a heartfelt note upon resigning from his role as the captain of the Pakistan national cricket team amidst their unsatisfactory performance in the ongoing 2023 ODI World Cup in India. In his statement, he reminisced about the day he assumed the captaincy in 2019 as appointed by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB). Azam took a reflective journey through the events of the past four years, highlighting Pakistan's ascent to the pinnacle of the ODI rankings. He attributed this significant achievement to the combined dedication of players, coaches, and management. 

Despite securing initial victories against the Netherlands and Sri Lanka, Pakistan faced adversity in the tournament, enduring a string of four consecutive defeats. While they staged a comeback with two crucial wins, their journey came to an end following a decisive loss to defending champions England in the concluding group-stage match. 

In a series of recent developments, the former Test captain of Pakistan, Mohammad Hafeez, has assumed the role of Director of the National Team. With a notable career that includes 55 Tests, 218 ODIs, and 119 T20Is for Pakistan, Hafeez brings extensive experience to this position. His past involvement in the PCB Cricket Technical Committee and his contribution to the Pakistan Men's team's triumph in the ICC Champions Trophy in England in 2017 further add to his credentials.

Simultaneously, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has implemented changes to the coaching staff, retaining all coaches to continue their work at the National Cricket Academy. The composition of the new coaching staff for the upcoming series in Australia and New Zealand will be disclosed in due course.