Babar Azam was named Pakistan’s Test captain again on 7 July 2026, a move that immediately drew sharp criticism from former opener Ahmed Shehzad, who accused the star batsman of chasing personal privileges rather than serving national interest.
What sparked the controversy?
The Pakistan Cricket Board announced Babar’s return just before the upcoming Test series against the West Indies and England. The decision reversed the recent appointment of Shan Masood, who had led the side in 16 Tests with a mixed record of four wins and twelve losses. The timing and the abrupt change ignited debate among former players and analysts.
How did Shehzad criticize Babar Azam?
During a live television discussion, Shehzad argued that Babar’s batting had slipped to roughly 550 runs in his last 30‑32 innings, a decline he said pre‑dated the captaincy switch. He claimed the role offered “stardom, authority, suite access and higher daily allowances,” suggesting Babar was attached to those perks. Shehzad’s most pointed remark was, “Babar ko captain ban’nay ka shoq hai,” implying the captaincy was more about personal comfort than duty.
What does the PCB’s decision mean for Pakistan’s Test side?
Babar previously captained Pakistan from 2020 to 2023, overseeing 20 Tests with ten wins, six defeats and four draws. The board hopes his experience will stabilize a side that struggled under Masood’s tenure. Critics, however, warn that reinstating a batsman whose form is under scrutiny could weaken the batting order in crucial innings, especially against strong bowling attacks like England’s.
What are the next steps for Babar Azam?
Babar now faces the dual challenge of regaining his batting rhythm while managing a squad that includes emerging talents and seasoned veterans. The first Test against the West Indies, scheduled for late July, will be his earliest test of leadership under the new appointment. Success or failure in that series will likely shape public perception and influence future selection decisions.
How will fans and analysts respond?
Social media erupted with mixed reactions; some fans praised the board’s confidence in Babar’s experience, while others echoed Shehzad’s concerns about form and motivation. Cricket pundits are expected to dissect his performance in the upcoming series, looking for signs whether the captaincy boost or burden his batting.
The controversy underscores a broader conversation about leadership turnover in Pakistani cricket, where the balance between experience and fresh blood remains a contentious topic.