Reason behind Babar Azam’s resignation as captain: Gary Kirsten involved?

New Delhi: Hard-hitting batter Babar Azam has once again announced to leave the captaincy of Pakistan’s ODI and T20 team. Babar Azam has submitted his resignation to the Pakistan Cricket Board. He did the same after the ODI World Cup 2023, but later the Pakistan Cricket Board again handed over the responsibility of captaincy to him, but once again he surprised everyone by resigning.

Babar took to social media and confirmed his decision to step down as Pakistan’s white-ball captain.

“Dear Fans, I’m sharing some news with you today. I have decided to resign as captain of the Pakistan men’s cricket team, effective as of my notification to the PCB and Team Management last month.,” Babar wrote.

“It’s been an honour to lead this team, but it’s time for me to step down and focus on my playing role. Captaincy has been a rewarding experience, but it’s added a significant workload. I want to prioritise my performance, enjoy my batting, and spend quality time with my family, which brings me joy.”

“By stepping down, I will gain clarity moving forward and focus more energy on my game and personal growth. I’m grateful for your unwavering support and belief in me. Your enthusiasm has meant the world to me. I’m proud of what we’ve achieved together and excited to continue contributing to the team as a player. Thank you for your love and support,” he added.

Dear Fans,

I’m sharing some news with you today. I have decided to resign as captain of the Pakistan men’s cricket team, effective as of my notification to the PCB and Team Management last month.

It’s been an honour to lead this team, but it’s time for me to step down and focus…

— Babar Azam (@babarazam258) October 1, 2024

Why Did Babar Azam Resigned As Captain?

As per a report in CricketPakistan, communication between Babar Azam and the cricket board diminished significantly. During this period, the cricketer was excluded from any consultation processes. Babar felt disconnected from the team and thus decided to step down.

Did Gary Kirsten Force Babar Azam To Resign?

Rumours were doing rounds on social media that Babar Azam stepped down as he wanted the captaincy of both white-ball teams, however, Gary Kirsten wanted Babar to only lead in ODIs. However, the rumours were busted by a popular journalist who revealed that Babar decided to quit because he felt disconnected from the team.

INSIDE NEWS – This is a wrong perception that Babar Azam wanted captaincy of both whiteball formats and Gary Kirsten only wanted him to be captain of ODI. Fact is Babar has completely lost interest in captaincy of Pakistan Cricket Team. #BabarAzam 3/n

— Arfa Feroz Zake (@ArfaSays_) October 2, 2024