'I am ready for this challenge' - Babar Azam reacts after PCB appointed him as Pakistan T20I skipper

Pakistan have come up with a big announcement for Australia tour. They have appointed Babar Azam and Azhar Ali as the new Pakistan team skippers in T20I and Test formats respectively. The days for Sarfaraz were already not going well as a captain of his side. Now, PCB have removed their 2017 ICC Champions Trophy winning captain with immediate effect.

After getting bashed by Sri Lanka with a clean sweep in the T20I series, this strong step was expected from the team management. Moreover, he is not only sacked but also dropped from the squad for Australia tour. This decision is being made as a warning for other players to improve their performances before they get dropped.

Babar Azam is the number one batsman in T20I rankings for batsmen and was recently appointed as the vice-captain against Sri Lanka. But, is now promoted to lead the team in the shorter format of this sport. He also holds the experience of leading the U19 team in the 2012 ICC U19 World Cup.

Babar Azam looks positive after getting a new role

When Babar was asked about how he felt on getting an added responsibility on his shoulder. Top-order batsman said he is pretty confident and is ready to lead the team from the front in the upcoming series and will learn a lot from this new role.

“To be named the captain of the No.1 ranked side in the world is the biggest thing that has happened to my career to date. I am ready for this challenge and also willing to learn more in the process. I feel it has been a natural progression for me and I am delighted that the PCB has put faith in my capabilities.”

He also recited that it is very difficult to match the level of Sarfaraz Ahmed, but will try to improve the consistency in the future, “Sarfaraz Ahmed has led the side in the shortest format by example. Now, it is my responsibility to take forward his accomplishments. So that we remain a consistent, attractive and powerful side,” he added.

PCB have taken this step in order to keep the upcoming T20 World Cup in mind which is scheduled to take place next year. Pakistan’s assignment is to play T20I and Test series in Australia which will kick off from 3rd November 2019.

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