Shaheen Shah Afridi was taken off his role as captain for Pakistan’s T20 cricket team, just a couple of months before the big T20 World Cup in 2024.
On Sunday, start batter Babar Azam was brought back as the captain, replacing Shaheen Afridi. This switch happened right after Pakistan lost a series to New Zealand, winning only one match out of five.
The Pakistan Cricket Board’s selection committee suggested that Babar should be the captain again, and everyone agreed with this decision.
Shaheen Shah Afridi’s Words After Being Sacked
Following a public process where PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi did not show support for Afridi, the PCB officially confirmed Afridi’s removal as T20I captain, with Babar taking over once again.
To mend any strains within the team, both Shaheen Afridi and Babar Azam issued statements expressing support for each other. Shaheen expressed gratitude for the opportunity to captain and pledged support to Babar.
“I will always cherish the memories and the opportunity,” Afridi said. “As a team player, it is my duty to back our captain, Babar Azam. I have played under his captaincy and have nothing but respect for him.”
“I will try to help him on and off the field. We are all one. Our aim is the same, to help Pakistan become the best team in the world.” he added.
Also Read: Pakistan Star All-Rounder Imad Wasim Comes Out of Retirement
Babar Azam Returns as Pakistan’s White-Ball Captain
Babar, who has previously led Pakistan in 43 ODIs and 71 T20Is between 2019 and 2023, now steps back into the captain’s role.
The cricket governing board explained that the change in white-ball leadership was a strategic move to ensure player welfare and optimal performance.
Babar Azam, known for his outstanding batting prowess, is set to lead the team once again. His track record as captain is impressive. Under his leadership, Pakistan achieved significant milestones, such as defeating India for the first time in a World Cup match during the ICC T20 World Cup 2021 and reaching the final of the 2022 T20 World Cup.
Upon his reappointment, Babar also showed respect for Shaheen Afridi’s leadership during the recent T20I series, acknowledging Shaheen’s growth as both a player and a leader.
“As a captain, I have always valued his input and I will keep consulting him for important decisions going forward. We must take advantage of his strategic understanding of the game. Our joint aim is to make this team the best in the world.”
Saying Babar’s captaincy record spoke for itself, PCB thanked Afridi for his contributions as captain and stated he would be part of “the leadership group” moving forward.
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Zartash Zulfiqar is a passionate cricket writer with a love for cricket that shines through in every word. From match analyses to player profiles, she delivers insightful commentary that resonates with fans worldwide. Stay tuned for the latest from the world of cricket, brought to you by Zartash.
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