A journalist has suggested a rift between Babar Azam and Shaheen Afridi regarding Pakistan’s captaincy. This tension is seen against the backdrop of frequent changes in leadership and support staff by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), which has led to criticism due to the team’s inconsistent performances.
Shaheen Afridi was made captain for the T20I series against New Zealand in early 2024, replacing Babar Azam after a poor 2023 World Cup. However, following a 4-1 series defeat, Afridi was replaced by Babar, who then led Pakistan to an early exit from the 2024 T20 World Cup, fueling rumors of discord between the two players.
Babar double cross Shaheen for Captaincy ?
— Azam-K (@Azamk555) September 17, 2024
Shocking statement by Qadir Khawaja pic.twitter.com/RaEMJd2x87
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Journalist Qadir Khawaja from Samma TV has alleged that Afridi was prepared to step down as captain for Babar and had discussed this with him. Babar reportedly assured Afridi that he did not intend to take the captaincy back, leading Afridi to believe he had Babar’s support.
Khawaja claims Babar was aware of the selectors’ decision to reinstate him but did not inform Afridi, who was led to believe he would remain captain based on a different assurance. This situation allegedly came to light during a training camp in Kakul.
The validity of Khawaja’s claims is uncertain, but they have intensified speculation about Pakistan’s captaincy. There is ongoing debate about whether Shaheen Afridi might be reinstated as T20 captain, with other potential candidates like Mohammad Rizwan also being considered.
