PCB Likely to Retain Babar Azam as Captain Despite World Cup Setbacks

Despite the Pakistan cricket team’s underwhelming performance in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2024, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is expected to retain Babar Azam as the captain of the national side for white-ball cricket post-tournament, sources told Geo News on Thursday. However, changes in the team are anticipated due to their disappointing showings.

The Men in Green have faced two losses in the World Cup, including defeats to the United States and arch-rivals India on June 9. Additionally, they struggled in their match against Canada on June 11, barely managing to chase down a target of 107 runs in 17.3 overs. These results have put Pakistan at risk of an early exit from the tournament, with their advancement to the Super 8 stage now reliant on the outcomes of other teams’ matches.

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PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi, who had previously expressed strong disappointment with the team’s performance, calling for a “major surgery” to overhaul the team, has since moderated his stance. Speaking to Geo News, Naqvi urged the nation to support the cricket team during the World Cup, emphasizing ongoing consultations regarding the team’s future. 

Naqvi’s comments outside the Parliament House highlighted a shift from his earlier stance. “The consultation is ongoing and it is not appropriate to discuss [the matter] further at this juncture,” he said. Despite earlier remarks indicating a significant overhaul, it seems the PCB has decided to move forward with Babar Azam as the captain, hoping to stabilize and improve the team’s performance moving forward.