Lahore: Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) accepted the resignation of white ball captain Babar Azam.

The PCB confirmed that Babar Azam’s resignation from the Pakistan Men’s White Ball captaincy on Tuesday evening has been accepted.

According to the PCB, Babar Azam’s decision shows his desire to focus on batting, after which the PCB selection committee will begin the process of preparing the white ball cricket strategy for the future, including the recommendation of a new captain.

The board said that although the PCB supported Babar Azam as white-ball captain, his decision to step down shows his desire to focus more as a player. This decision is a testament to his professionalism and commitment to Pakistan cricket. He believes that by fully dedicating himself to his batting, he will be able to play a more decisive role in the team’s success in the shorter formats.

The PCB added that the board recognizes Babar’s contribution as a white-ball captain, his ability to prioritize the needs of the team, and his unwavering commitment to Pakistan cricket. While he still has a lot to offer as both a world-class batsman and a senior member of the team.

Team success is most important: Babar Azam

On the other hand, Babar Azam said that playing for Pakistan has always been the greatest honor for him and he has always prioritized the success of the team above everything else. Stepping down as captain will help him do more for the team as a player and he was fully committed to that path, the success of the team is paramount.

“I have had the privilege of leading Pakistan for five remarkable years, and have always tried to give my best as both captain and player, at this stage, I firmly believe that I can focus on my batting and create a major impact. I am grateful for the continued support of my fellow players, coaches, and the PCB during my captaincy,” the former captain said.

“Although it has been a great honor to lead Pakistan, now is the right time for me to concentrate on batting and the team’s goals, supporting the new captain and emerging players as we are gearing up for an important season ahead, in which we have to defend the ICC Champions Trophy at home next year,” he added.

Lahore: Pakistani spinner Usman Qadir announced his retirement from Pakistan cricket.

Usman Qadir turned to social media and wrote: “Today, I am announcing my retirement from Pakistan cricket, and as I reflect on this incredible journey, I want to express my heartfelt gratitude”.

‘It has been an immense honor to represent my country, and I’m thankful for the support of my coaches and teammates who have been with me every step of the way,’ he stated.

The cricketer added that from unforgettable victories to the challenges they faced together, each moment has shaped his career and enriched his life.

Usman further said that he was deeply appreciative of the passionate fans who have always stood by him; their unwavering support has meant the world.

“As I step into this new chapter, I will be continuing my dad’s legacy, embracing both my love for cricket and the lessons he instilled in me,” wrote Qadir.

“I carry with me the spirit of Pakistan cricket and the cherished memories we created together,” continued the cricketer.

It is pertinent to note that he is the son of late former Test cricketer Abdul Qadir and has represented Pakistan in one ODI and 25 T20 matches.

According to the media reports, Usman Qadir announced his retirement after being upset with the NOC matters. He was facing difficulties regarding the NOC for a long time.

It is also reported that Usman Qadir was also very disappointed with the attitude of the international department and will now look at cricket’s future in other countries.

Former Pakistan skipper Younis Khan on Thursday said Babar Azam’s decision to quit as the national side’s white-ball captain would be “beneficial” for him. 

The veteran cricketer, 46, also proposed two names — wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan and left-hand batter Fakhar Zaman — as the new contenders for the post. 

“In our culture, we often make the biggest player the captain, which I believe is a mistake,” said Younis, adding that Rizwan or Zaman should be considered for the role.

Babar, on Tuesday, announced that he was stepping down from white-ball captaincy, saying that it was time for him to focus on his playing role and personal growth.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) had reappointed him as the national team’s captain for T20I and one-day internationals (ODIs) on March 31. He had earlier ended his years-long stint as skipper in November 2023 after he stepped down as captain of the national side.

The former batter’s remarks came during his visit to the Adelaide Oval earlier today where he was honoured with the official South Australia Redbacks cap by Mark Cosgrove, former Australian cricketer and current High-Performance Coach of the South Australian Cricket Association (SACA).

The legendary batter, who arrived in Australia this morning, represented the Redbacks during the 2008-2009 season.

During a media briefing at the iconic venue, Younis expressed optimism about Pakistan’s chances in Australia, acknowledging the presence of young talent in the current white ball squad but also pointing to issues with team selection.

Former Pakistan skipper Younis Khan receives the official South Australia Redbacks cap by Mark Cosgrove, former Australian cricketer and current High-Performance Coach of the South Australian Cricket Association (SACA). — Supplied

Former Pakistan skipper Younis Khan receives the official South Australia Redbacks cap by Mark Cosgrove, former Australian cricketer and current High-Performance Coach of the South Australian Cricket Association (SACA). — Supplied

“I hope the Pakistan men’s cricket team performs well in Australia. The current squad includes young players, and there are certainly some issues with team selection that need to be addressed,” the veteran cricketer stated.

“I have played cricket with Jason Gillespie; he is working hard to improve the Pakistan team. However, there needs to be better decision-making when it comes to selection,” he added.

Younis is also set to take part in the upcoming Australian Summer Cricket Festival, scheduled for October 5 in Melbourne. He will join top Australian cricketers, including Glenn Maxwell and Jake Fraser-McGurk, in the highly anticipated event, which aims to celebrate the sport and bring together cricketing talent.