Webdesk: Pakistan’s most successful captain, Babar Azam, will lead the team till World Cup 2023 in India.
The PCB has not announced a captain until the huge event. Insiders told that Najam Sethi, top selector Haroon Rashid, and Director Coaching Mickey Arthur had unanimously chosen Babar.
All pre-World Cup competitions will be led by him.
Pakistan hosted the September Asia Cup, two-Test series against Sri Lanka, and three-ODI series against Afghanistan.
After weeks of online and in-person discussions with Arthur in mid-April, the troika decided to keep Babar as squad captain until the World Cup.
“The best and most sane approach is to continue with Babar as captain till the ODI World Cup 2023,” the insider told The News.
Babar led the team to World No. 1 in ODIs.
His ability to lead the squad in critical times and his personal contribution make him one of the greatest in Pakistan and abroad.
“Babar was standing alone at the top of captaincy aspirants list for the extravaganza,” the source said.
Babar’s retention as captain dispelled speculations of the PCB considering other captains.
“This has been primarily to seek his help and guidance when selecting team members for coming series, including the Asia Cup and later the World Cup. Stitch saves nine.
“Since Pakistan will host the Asia Cup and World Cup is also scheduled in the sub-continent, a timely decision always benefits in preparing well,” the source added.
Sethi suggested keeping Babar as captain until the World Cup in recent media interviews. “There is no better option for the job,” he said.
Arthur reportedly preferred Shan Masood over Babar.
