PCB accepts Babar Azam's resignation as captain

PCB acknowledged Babar's contributions as captain; a statement by the board noted his professionalism and commitment.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has officially confirmed that Babar Azam has stepped down as Pakistan's white-ball captain. Babar, who led the team for five years, submitted his resignation on Tuesday evening, which was accepted by the board.

Despite the PCB’s backing of Babar as captain, they respect his decision to step down to focus more on his batting. The national selection committee has now been tasked with shaping future white-ball strategies and recommending a new captain for the team.

In a statement, the PCB acknowledged Babar's contributions as captain, highlighting his professionalism and commitment.

Although the PCB had backed Babar Azam as the white-ball captain, his decision to step down reflects his desire to focus more on making a greater impact as a player.

“This decision is a testament to his professionalism and commitment to Pakistan cricket. He believes that dedicating himself fully to his batting will enable him to play a more decisive role in the team’s success in the shorter formats.

Babar Azam, in his own words, expressed his love for playing for Pakistan and how stepping down will help him contribute more as a player.

“Playing for Pakistan has always been my greatest honour and I’ve always placed the team’s success above everything else. Stepping down as captain will help me deliver even more for the team as a player and I’m fully committed to that path. The team’s success is what matters most.

“I’ve had the privilege of leading Pakistan for five remarkable years, always trying to give my best as both captain and player. At this stage, I strongly believe I can make a bigger impact by concentrating on my batting. I am grateful for the constant support from my teammates, coaches and the PCB throughout my captaincy.

“While it has been a great honour to lead Pakistan, now is the right time to shift my complete focus on batting, team’s objectives during this transitional phase and back the new captain and emerging players as we prepare for a crucial season ahead, including the defense of the ICC Champions Trophy on home soil next year.”

The PCB remains supportive of Babar and looks forward to his continued contribution as a senior player in the team.