'You have wronged Babar Azam': Salman butt blasts PCB on mishandling of captaincy issues

Former Pakistan cricket captain Salman Butt has strongly criticised the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) for its handling of Babar Azam's captaincy, stating that the board's actions have worsened the difficulties faced by the young captain.

In an exclusive interview with Cricket Pakistan, Butt addressed the challenges that Babar Azam has faced as the leader of the Pakistan cricket team, emphasising that the PCB has not provided him with the necessary support to succeed.

"Let’s first talk about what Babar Azam has at hand. He is not a born leader. But the issue is, what have you contributed to make it easier for him?" Butt remarked.

Butt's comments come amid ongoing controversy surrounding public criticisms directed at Babar by teammates Imad Wasim and Mohammad Amir, who Butt claims have publicly humiliated Babar on television.

"You brought in two guys who humiliated him on TV. Then you changed the captain and brought him back after two series. You are creating corners within the team yourself," Butt said, highlighting how these actions have undermined Babar's position and morale within the team.

Butt stressed the importance of effective team management, suggesting that the current support system around Babar is lacking.

"There needed to be proper man management in the team. You are having him managed by those who couldn’t manage themselves their whole life," Butt commented.

While acknowledging that Babar Azam may not be a natural leader, Butt argued that the PCB's decisions have made his job even more challenging.

"You have wronged Babar; yes, he is not a good captain, but you didn’t give him ideal preparation either," Butt concluded.