Ahmad Shehzad Criticizes Babar Azam Captaincy Return, Questions PCB Decision

Former Pakistan opener Ahmad Shehzad has sparked fresh debate over Babar Azam captaincy, criticizing the Pakistan Cricket Board’s decision to hand the leadership role back to the star batter. Shehzad questioned whether the move was made in Pakistan cricket’s best interest, arguing that Babar had not delivered the desired results during his previous tenure as captain.

Speaking in a television interview, Ahmad Shehzad claimed Babar Azam’s recent displays were not enough to warrant his return as captain. The former skipper had been playing in a good form in his previous 30-32 innings, but was now under the spotlight, he said. Even with those reservations, the PCB went ahead and re-nominated him as the captain, and thus, there was a feeling among old-time cricketers and fans that maybe they should not reappoint him.

Shehzad also brushed aside the perennial debate that the captaincy had an adverse impact on Babar Azam’s bowling. He said that if his performances affected by the leadership, then Babar should have step aside so that another deserving player can take over the charge. Instead, he accepted the responsibility once again.

The former opener also added that the role of a captain allows him to earn fame, authority and some privileges such as more decision making powers, different accommodation and extra allowances. Shehzad said that the benefits might be one of the motivations behind Babar’s willingness to come back as captain.

Former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif, meanwhile, told Babar Azam to concentrate on future Test duties and not the role of T20 skipper. He mentioned that the next events in Pakistan’s schedule are the two-match Test series against Bangladesh and another Test series against the West Indies in the ICC World Test Championship.

Rashid Latif told Babar Azam to take advantage of his batting form and lead the way for the Pakistan side to achieve success in the next Test series. He said that the main objective of the team should be to perform consistently in the ICC World Test Championship.

The debate over Babar Azam captaincy continues to divide opinions, with former players offering contrasting views on whether his return as Pakistan captain will benefit the national team in the long run.