LAHORE: Former legendary Pakistani all-rounder Shahid Afridi commented on Babar Azam’s future as captain, and said that the skipper has had more opportunities than anyone else.
Following a disappointing T20 World Cup campaign, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) today removed Wahab Riaz and Abdul Razzaq from their roles as selectors from the national side. The decision comes after PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi announced a major overhaul.
Shahid Afridi expressed his confusion regarding the dismissal of Wahab Riaz and Abdul Razzaq from the selection committee while speaking to reporters on Wednesday during his participation in the World Championship of Legends 2024 in England. Afridi, aged 47, emphasized that the selection committee comprises multiple members, not solely Riaz and Razzaq.
“I’ve just learned about the sidelining of Abdul Razzaq and Wahab Riaz,” Afridi said. “I don’t understand this approach of making such drastic changes.”
Afridi further suggested that if changes are necessary, they should be comprehensive and final. He emphasized the importance of allowing sufficient time for whoever assumes new responsibilities to develop their leadership skills.
Regarding Babar Azam, Pakistan’s current T20 captain, Afridi said that the 29-year-old has been given ample opportunities to showcase his captaincy abilities.
“No captain has been given as many chances as Babar has had,” Afridi remarked, noting Azam’s participation in numerous international tournaments.
However, despite Azam’s extensive opportunities, Afridi hinted at reservations about his leadership capabilities.
Sources indicated that Riaz, 39, and Abdul Razzaq, 44, wielded significant influence in selecting the T20 World Cup squad, often supporting players who did not perform well.
Meanwhile, Mohammad Yousuf, Asad Shafiq, and Bilal Afzal remain part of the seven-member selection panel, which also includes the team captain and head coach.
