Rashid Latif backs Babar Azam to return to form after captaincy resignation

Star Pakistan batter Babar Azam recently came forward and stepped down from Pakistan’s captaincy for the second time in 10 months. Babar stepped down from the role due to Pakistan’s subpar performances in recent months. 

Although many think of it as a low in Babar’s career, former Pakistan cricketer Rashid Latif opined that this could prove to be a blessing in disguise for the ace better. It is worth noting that in 2024, Babar has only managed to maintain an average of 34 in 22 outings. However, Latif was of the opinion that with the pressure of captaincy off his head, Babar Azam would once again be able to perform at the peak of his powers. 

"He (Babar) understood late but rightly in the end. Mohammad Amir, Azam (Khan) and Imad Wasim have always kept you on your toes, played the World Cup (T20) as they wanted to. Now they are gone. Now Babar's time will come as they pressure of captaincy if off,” Latif tweeted.

Interestingly, despite his struggles. Babar Azam seemed to enjoy a good record as the skipper. Leading Pakistan across 148 matches, Babar led his side to 84 wins and 50 losses.

PCB has been in-search of captain since 11 months! First sacked Shaheen, brought back Babar and now again, standing nowhere.

Pakistan needs good leaders in the form of captain, coach and manager. @DrNaumanNiaz pic.twitter.com/yIHZTIAToG

— Rashid Latif | 🇵🇰 (@iRashidLatif68) October 3, 2024

A lot of things got damaged by him, give others a chance: Latif

Furthermore, Rashid Latif talked about how Babar Azam had the captaincy of Pakistan on the wrong occasions, and he even revealed telling star Pakistan batter Mohammad Rizwan to not go for captaincy and letting others get a shot at leading the side. It is worth noting that Rizwan has led Pakistan twice in Tests, both of those matches resulted in defeats for the side.

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"A lot of things got damaged by him (Babar), two World Cups went by. He wanted captaincy at the wrong time. That's why I will advise Rizwan, no way (don't become captain). Give others a chance. You didn't get captaincy at a time you should have got it," Latif concluded.