Mohammed Rizwan Touted As Best Choice For Pakistan Captain By Sarfaraz Nawaz

Sarfaraz Nawaz has expressed his view that Babar Azam should not be considered for the role of Pakistan's captain, instead supporting Mohammed Rizwan for the position. The former fast bowler believes Babar Azam lacks confidence and sees Rizwan as the better choice.

Babar Azam resumed his role as T20I captain of Pakistan just before the T20 World Cup 2024. However, Pakistan's performance was underwhelming, drawing a series against a second-string New Zealand team at home, losing to Ireland in Ireland, and suffering a series defeat in England. India won the ICC event on June 29.

"Rizwan has proved his captaincy credentials by helping KPK win all domestic events in the past while his performance as Multan Sultans' captain has been consistent over the years. He is the best choice for the job. Babar Azam is low in confidence and should not be considered for the job," Sarfaraz Nawaz told The News.

In the T20 World Cup 2024, Pakistan faced unexpected defeats. They were stunned by USA and then lost to India, leading to their exit before even reaching the Super 8 round of the tournament.

Sarfaraz Nawaz did not hold back in criticising Wahab Riaz, Abdul Razzaq, and the entire selection committee. He stated that they should all be dismissed from their roles.

"The selection committee has worked collectively as was apparent during the pre-World Cup press conference with every member admitting that the team was constituted after consensus. Every member of the committee was responsible for the selection, so all should be sacked. The entire selection committee was incapable of delivering."

Sarfaraz Nawaz also mentioned writing letters to Zaka and Naqvi about Wahab Riaz's suspected past and lack of administrative abilities. He felt ignored despite his warnings about Wahab's unsuitability for multiple roles including selector, advisor, and manager.

"I am on record to have written letters to Zaka and Naqvi regarding Wahab's suspected past and his lack of abilities as an administrator. Nobody paid heed to my suggestion. I knew well that Wahab was not capable of delivering in any capacity yet he was made selector, advisor and manager. On all fronts he failed."

The former cricketer’s comments highlight significant concerns about leadership and decision-making within Pakistan cricket ahead of major tournaments.