The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is reportedly considering a significant change in leadership for the white-ball formats, a move that has sparked intense speculation about the future of current captain Babar Azam. While Babar has achieved notable success as captain, recent performances and tactical decisions have led to growing discussions about his leadership capabilities.

Babar Azam’s captaincy in question

In a recent turn of events, the PCB has decided not to appoint Babar as captain for the upcoming Champions One Day Cup. This decision has led to widespread conjecture regarding Babar’s future as the white-ball captain. Despite his success and leadership in the past, questions about his recent performances and strategic decisions have prompted the board to explore alternatives.

Mohammad Rizwan emerges as top contender

Sources within the PCB indicate that Mohammad Rizwan, the current vice-captain, is a leading candidate to replace Babar. Rizwan’s consistent performances and demonstrated leadership qualities have positioned him as a strong contender for the captaincy role. His potential appointment would signal a shift in leadership approach for the team, aligning with the board’s vision for future successes.

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In-depth discussions with Gary Kirsten

The decision to possibly replace Babar has reportedly been the subject of extensive discussions between PCB officials, white-ball head coach Gary Kirsten, and Babar himself. Earlier this year, Kirsten is said to have engaged in conversations with both the board and Babar regarding the captaincy issue. These discussions likely focused on the team’s strategic direction and the potential appointment of Rizwan as the new captain.

Rizwan’s prospects across formats

Should Rizwan be confirmed as the new white-ball captain, his leadership role may extend beyond the limited-overs formats. His consistent performance and leadership qualities make him a viable candidate for future leadership roles in all formats of the game. The decision to elevate Rizwan could pave the way for his involvement in leadership across formats, further solidifying his role within the team.

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