The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has raised concerns about the captaincy of Babar Azam and have hinted that his leadership could be at risk if the team's performance in the current World Cup doesn't improve. Pakistan faces a critical match against a formidable South African team in Chennai on Friday, and a loss would greatly diminish their chances of making it to the semifinals. The team has suffered three consecutive defeats in their five matches, including losses to India, Australia, and Afghanistan.
In response to the growing criticism of Pakistan's World Cup performances, the PCB issued an unusual press release on Thursday. Earlier this week, Babar Azam's team suffered a surprising defeat to Afghanistan, their first in ODIs against the Afghan side, leaving them in fifth place with a negative Net Run Rate (NRR). Babar's captaincy decisions have come under severe scrutiny, with many former international Pakistani cricketers, including Wasim Akram, Shahid Afridi, and Misbah-ul-Haq, questioning his defensive game strategies.
South Africa's Dominance in the ICC Men's World Cup 2023
Pakistan are in a must-win situation as they face a dominant South African team, currently ranked 2nd in the ICC Men's World Cup 2023 points table. South Africa have emerged victorious in four out of their five tournament matches, each with a margin of over 100 runs. This critical match is set to take place in Chennai on Friday. A defeat would severely diminish Pakistan's chances of making it to the semifinals, especially considering their recent string of three losses in five matches.
The PCB, in its press release, has called upon fans to support the team, but it has also conveyed a worrisome message to Babar Azam regarding his future as captain if Pakistan fails to secure a spot in the knockout stages.
The PCB stated,"Addressing the media scrutiny directed at captain Babar Azam and the team management, the board's stance, echoing that of former cricketers, is that successes and defeats are part of the game. Captain Babar Azam and Chief Selector Inzamam-ul-Haq were given freedom and support in forming the squad for the ICC World Cup 2023."
Following the unexpected eight-wicket loss to Afghanistan in Chennai, there have been increasing calls for Babar to be relieved of his 50-over captaincy.
"Looking ahead, the board will make decisions in the best interest of Pakistan cricket based on the team's performances in the World Cup. At present, the PCB encourages fans, former players and stakeholders to rally behind the team as they strive to make a triumphant comeback in the mega-event," the PCB added in its press release.