Pakistan cricket is bracing for a significant leadership change as reports suggest that Babar Azam, Pakistan’s current white-ball captain, may soon be replaced. Sources indicate that Mohammad Rizwan is being considered as the new captain, with a decision likely to be made ahead of Pakistan’s upcoming tour of Australia.
PCB hints at change in Captaincy
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has sparked speculation by not appointing Babar Azam as a captain in the forthcoming Champions One-Day Cup, a key domestic competition. This move is seen as a potential indicator that Babar’s tenure as captain of the white-ball side may be nearing its end. The PCB is reportedly as per Geo News is discussing Mohammad Rizwan’s leadership credentials, and he may be given the responsibility of leading Pakistan in all three formats of the game.
White-ball head coach Gary Kirsten has also been involved in the discussions regarding this shift in leadership. Kirsten, who visited Pakistan in July, is said to have discussed the captaincy situation with PCB officials, further fuelling the possibility of Rizwan’s elevation.
Babar Azam recent form under scrutiny
Babar Azam, while a prolific batsman, has faced increasing scrutiny for his recent form, particularly in Test cricket. His struggles during the Test series against Bangladesh, where he managed only a duck and 22 in the first Test and scored 31 and 11 in the second, have raised questions about his performance as captain. His slip in the ICC Test Rankings, where he currently holds the 12th position, has only added to the concerns.
In contrast, Rizwan has been in solid form, particularly during the same Test series, where he emerged as Pakistan’s top scorer with 294 runs. His consistent performances have bolstered his reputation as a dependable player and leader.
Mohammad Rizwan to be next Pakistan Captain?
Mohammad Rizwan, who has already been appointed captain of the Wolves in the Champions One-Day Cup, is seen as a strong contender for the national team’s captaincy.
His leadership abilities and steady form across all formats make him a suitable candidate to take on the role, potentially replacing Babar in both T20Is and ODIs. If Rizwan is appointed captain, it could signal a shift towards a new leadership structure in Pakistan cricket.
New leaders emerging in Pakistan Cricket Team?
As the Champions One-Day Cup approaches, the PCB has announced a fresh set of captains for the five participating teams. Notably, Babar was not assigned a leadership role. Pakistan’s Test vice-captain, Saud Shakeel, will lead the Dolphins, while Shaheen Shah Afridi has been named captain of the Lions.
Shadab Khan will head the Panthers, Mohammad Haris will captain the Stallions, and Rizwan will take charge of the Wolves.
What’s next for Pakistan Cricket?
As Pakistan prepares for the challenging tour of Australia, where they will play three T20Is and three ODIs, the leadership transition could bring a new direction for the team. Rizwan’s potential appointment as captain across formats would mark a new era for Pakistan cricket, with a focus on stability and consistent performances. All eyes will be on the PCB’s final decision and how it shapes the future of the team.
The upcoming series Down Under could be a crucial test for Rizwan, should he be appointed captain, as Pakistan looks to rebuild and strengthen its presence on the international stage.
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