Babar Azam stepped down as the captain of the Pakistan cricket team from all formats on Wednesday following the Green Shirts' woeful display in the ICC World Cup 2023 where they were knocked out in the group stages.
Azam led Pakistan for over four years and it was under his leadership that the team became the no.1 ODI side in the world for the first time in their history.
Fans have gone emotional on Azam's decision to leave the captaincy and thanked him for his services over the years.
Babar made the major announcement just moments after he met Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Management Committee Chairman Zaka Ashraf at Lahore's Gaddafi Stadium, where, sources told Geo News, he was offered to remain the team's skipper in Tests, but he refused.
Recalling the first time he was appointed as captain for the white-ball format, Babar said he "vividly" remembers the moment — as it is for people who are asked to take on a huge role.
"Over the past four years, I've experienced many highs and lows on and off the field, but I wholeheartedly and passionately aimed to maintain Pakistan's pride and respect in the cricket world," Babar said in a post on X, formerly Twitter.
Babar Azam hailed the side for its collective effort to become the top-ranked side in ODIs.
"Reaching the number 1 spot in the white-ball format was a result of the collective efforts of players, coaches, and management but I'd like to express my gratitude to passionate Pakistan cricket fans for their unwavering support during this journey."
Meanwhile, he assured his support for the new captain. "I will continue to represent Pakistan as a player in all three formats. I am here to support the new captain and the team with my experience and dedication."
He concluded by thanking PCB for the support.
"I want to express my sincere thanks to the Pakistan Cricket Board for entrusting me with this significant responsibility."
Babar ended as the greatest captain of T20Is for Pakistan, winning 42 out of 71. Under him, Pakistan achieved the top rank in ODIs. His Test record as captain is below par where he won 10 out of 20 while incurred six losses.
- Babar Azam