Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chief Mohsin Naqvi is reportedly considering another leadership change across formats. Former captain Babar Azam has emerged as the leading candidate to replace Shan Masood as Pakistan’s Test captain after the team’s disappointing defeat in the ongoing series in Bangladesh.
Bangladesh defeated Pakistan by 104 runs in the first Test in Dhaka on Tuesday. Chasing 268 in the fourth innings, Pakistan were bowled out for 163. Fast bowler Nahid Rana took a five-wicket haul to complete Bangladesh’s impressive victory and continue their recent success against Pakistan in red-ball cricket.
Babar Azam Back as Pakistan's Test Captain!
According to a report by news agency PTI, a campaign is underway within the PCB to bring Babar Azam back as Test captain. Several influential figures in the board support his return for the remaining World Test Championship matches and believe his presence could improve team morale.
"Some influential figures in the Pakistan Cricket Board also want Babar back as captain and believe this is the right time to give him another run at captaincy," the source said.
Shan Masood has faced heavy criticism over his captaincy and batting form after the defeat in Dhaka. The current Test skipper failed to score heavily in either innings, increasing pressure on his position. Masood became Pakistan’s Test captain in December 2023.
Babar Azam Open to Pakistan Captaincy Return After Talks With PCB Officials
The report further stated that early discussions have already taken place between board officials and Babar Azam, and the former skipper is open to returning as captain if he regains form with the bat. The board believes his leadership could help stabilize the team during a difficult period.
“If Babar plays the second Test and regains his batting form, he is a strong contender to come back as captain. Initial exchanges with some board officials indicate he is also not averse to becoming captain again,” the source said.
Babar Azam missed the opening Test against Bangladesh because of a knee injury suffered before the series. He is expected to return for the second Test starting on May 18. Pakistan still have seven Test matches remaining this year.
Babar To Be Named Pakistan ODI Captain Too?
The report also revealed the Pakistan Cricket Board’s long-term leadership plans beyond Test cricket. Notably, the board wants to first bring Babar Azam back as Test captain before preparing him to lead the ODI side ahead of next year’s World Cup.
"The idea is to bring Babar back as Test captain, then prepare him to take over the ODI captaincy before next year’s World Cup," the source claimed.
Pakistan have lost 11 of their 15 matches since Shan Masood became Test captain. Masood is disappointed after the recent defeat and is considering taking the Director of International Cricket and Player Affairs role offered by PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi.
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