PCB gives a statement regarding concerns regarding Babar Azam's captaincy amid Pakistan's troubles in the World Cup!

PC: dnaindia

Amid Pakistan's challenging World Cup campaign, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) released a statement addressing concerns about the team's performance and Babar Azam's captaincy. With only four points from five matches, Pakistan suffered consecutive defeats to India, Australia, and Afghanistan, putting its World Cup hopes in jeopardy. A crucial match against South Africa awaited them in Chennai, and failure to win would all but end their chances of progressing to the semi-finals.

In its statement, the PCB acknowledged the disappointment of fans and the cricket community but also raised questions over Babar Azam's future as captain if Pakistan failed to progress in the tournament. The captain's decisions had faced criticism from former Pakistan cricket legends like Wasim Akram, Shahid Afridi, and Misbah-ul-Haq. The PCB clarified that both captain Babar and chief selector Inzamam-ul-Haq have the autonomy to prepare the World Cup squad.

The PCB said, "In response to the intense media scrutiny on captain Babar Azam and the team management, the board's position aligns with that of former cricketers, emphasizing that winning and losing are inherent in the game. Captain Babar Azam and the chief "Selector Inzamam-ul-Haq were given the freedom and support to build the squad for the ICC World Cup 2023."

After the shocking eight-wicket defeat to Afghanistan in Chennai, the demand for change in Babar's 50-over captaincy intensified.

"Looking ahead, the Board will take a decision in the best interest of Pakistan cricket keeping in mind the team's performance in the World Cup. At present, the PCB calls on fans, former players, and stakeholders to stand behind the team in this mega event. Try to make a comeback."