Babar Azam steps down as Pakistan Captain after dismal ODI World Cup, pens down heartfelt note

Babar Azam has penned a heartfelt note after stepping down as captain of the Pakistan national cricket team. The decision came after Pakistan's dismal outing in the ongoing ODI World Cup 2023 in India. Babar Azam has penned a heartfelt note after stepping down as captain of the Pakistan national cricket team.

The decision came after Pakistan's dismal outing in the ongoing ODI World Cup 2023 in India. In his statement, he reminisced about the day he received the call from the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) in 2019 to lead the team. Reflecting on the past four years, he discussed the various events that unfolded. He also spoke about the period when Pakistan achieved the top spot in the ODI format, attributing it to the combined efforts of players, coaches, and management.

"Today, I am stepping down as the captain of Pakistan in all formats. It's a difficult decision but I feel it is a right time for this call. I will continue to represent Pakistan as a player in all three formats. I am here to support the new captain and the team with my experience and dedication. I want to express my sincere thanks to the Pakistan Cricket Board for entrusting me with this significant responsibility," Babar shared a heartfelt message on his 'X' handle.

Pakistan made an early exit in group stage of ODI World Cup, PCB's sack saga continues

Pakistan have had a dismal outing in the ongoing ODI World Cup 2023. Despite a strong start with victories against the Netherlands and Sri Lanka, the 1992 champions struggled, facing four defeats on a trot. The Men in Green staged a comeback with two crucial wins but were knocked out of the competition after a loss to defending champions England in the final group-stage clash.

Babar Azam, on the other hand, also had a forgettable campaign, failing to meet expectations in the marquee event. The 29-year-old managed to accumulate only 320 runs from nine games, including four half-centuries at an average of 40.00 and a strike rate of 82.90. His best innings came against Afghanistan, at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, in Chennai, where he scored 74 off 92 deliveries, despite his side suffering an eight-wicket loss.

Also Check: ODI World Cup 2023 Points Table