‘Time to step down’: Babar Azam resigns as Pakistan captain

Despite the PCBs backing, Pakistani star batter and former test captain Babar Azam has resigned from the position of the ODI captain of the national cricket team. In response the board stated that they respect his decision and that he will be able to focus more on his batting. The national committee has now been given the job of shaping the future of white ball cricket for the national team and recommending a new ODI captain. 

In the statement, the PCB acknowledged Babar’s professionalism and commitment towards the sport and national team. The statement read, “This decision is a testament to his professionalism and commitment towards Pakistan cricket. He believes that dedicating himself fully to his batting would help him to play a more decisive role in the team’s success in the shorter formats.”

Babar Azam in his own words, took to twitter and posted on his wall stating, “Playing for Pakistan has always been my greatest honour and I have always placed the team’s success above everyone else. Stepping down as captain will help me deliver more for the team as a player and I am fully committed to that path.” 

Azam had been the captain for 5 long years in the limited overs format. He stated that he is at the transition phase and new players need to step up for the captainship role. The star batsman is fully concentrated on the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy that is scheduled to be held in Pakistan home soil.