T20 World Cup 2024: Ahmed Shehzad Questions Babar Azam's Leadership Role

Former opening batter Ahmed Shehzad has criticised the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) for reappointing Babar Azam as the captain of the national team. Shehzad described this decision by PCB chief Mohsin Naqvi as one of the worst, especially after Pakistan's early exit from the T20 World Cup 2024.

Pakistan's elimination came after a washout in their Group A match against Ireland at Central Broward Regional Park Stadium Turf Ground in Lauderhill, Florida, on June 14. The team had previously suffered defeats to the USA and India, which hindered their chances of advancing to the Super 8 stage.

Babar Azam had stepped down as captain across all formats following a disappointing campaign in last year's ODI World Cup. However, he was reappointed earlier this year, replacing Shaheen Shah Afridi. This decision has been met with criticism as Pakistan failed to progress in the T20 World Cup.

Shehzad expressed his disappointment with the leadership, stating that Babar, Mohammad Rizwan, Shaheen Afridi, Fakhar Zaman, and Haris Rauf have been given ample opportunities but have not delivered results. He pointed out that the team appears divided and lacks effective leadership.

"Making Babar Azam captain again was the worst decision by the PCB chairman because he was a tried and tested captain. Wahab Riaz has handled things very unprofessionally," Shehzad told Geo News.

Shehzad also criticised Babar and Rizwan for focusing on personal milestones rather than improving Pakistan's net run rate in their match against Canada. He highlighted that Rizwan scored the slowest fifty while Babar managed only 33 runs at a run-a-ball pace.

"They say that we are learning from our mistakes; what are you learning? Against Canada, you had to improve your net run rate and Rizwan scored the slowest fifty. Babar Azam scored 33 at a run-a-ball. There were no demons on the pitch," Shehzad said.

He further added that personal milestones have negatively impacted Pakistan cricket, leading to its decline. Shehzad accused the players of prioritising friendships over fitness and performance, resulting in poor outcomes over the past five years.

"Personal milestones have destroyed our cricket and the condition of our cricket is because of them. You don't have leadership; the only thing you have is social media-generated fame. You have won nothing in the last five years; you don't have fitness; you are playing politics; your cricket is on the decline. You have only stuck to friendships," Shehzad added.