- Shoaib Malik suggests Babar Azam step down from captaincy post-India defeat.
- Malik cites concerns about Azam’s strategic thinking as captain, advocating for a shift to unlock Azam’s playing potential.
- Malik proposes Shaheen Afridi as a potential captain, citing his aggressive leadership for the Lahore Qalandars.
In the wake of a decisive seven-wicket defeat at the hands of India, former Pakistan cricketer Shoaib Malik has voiced a controversial opinion regarding the captaincy role. Malik, in a recent interview with a local media channel, suggested that Babar Azam should contemplate stepping down from the captaincy position.
Also read: Is Babar Azam Shining Against Weaker Teams or Displaying Genuine Talent?
Expressing his viewpoint, Malik highlighted concerns about Azam’s ability to think innovatively and strategically as the team’s captain. According to Malik, relinquishing the captaincy might unlock Azam’s true potential as a player and, in turn, contribute significantly to the success of Pakistan’s cricket team.
Malik stated,
“I gave an opinion in the past as well that Babar Azam should leave the captaincy. This is my personal opinion. Babar does not think outside the box as a captain. He is doing captaincy, but the improvement is not coming. He can do wonders for Pakistan as a player.”
Malik, a former captain himself, believes that a change in leadership could be beneficial for the team. He specifically suggested that if Babar Azam decides to step down, Shaheen Afridi should assume the role of captain in white-ball cricket. Malik pointed out Afridi’s attacking captaincy for the Lahore Qalandars as evidence of his leadership potential.
Malik concluded,
“Shaheen Afridi should become captain in white-ball cricket in case Babar Azam resigns. He has done attacking captaincy for Lahore Qalandars.”
This opinion comes in the aftermath of Pakistan’s loss to India, where the team failed to defend a target of 191 runs. While Malik’s viewpoint is bound to stir discussions within the cricketing community, the decision ultimately rests with the Pakistan Cricket Board and the players involved.
As the cricketing world eagerly watches, the fate of the captaincy in Pakistan remains uncertain, with potential implications for the team’s future strategies and performances.
