Key Takeaways
- Aaqib Javed, a member of the Pakistan selection committee, defended the replacement of Shan Masood with Babar Azam.
- The change was due to recurring tactical shortcomings and the team's inability to dismiss opposition tailenders effectively.
- Babar Azam is expected to lead for the next two to three years.
Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) member Aaqib Javed has defended the decision to replace Shan Masood as Test captain with Babar Azam, stating that the team's progress did not meet expectations. Speaking on a PCB podcast hosted by former Pakistan captain Salman Butt and released on Wednesday, Aaqib highlighted the need for a captain who can produce results and ensure team progress.
Aaqib pointed out specific issues under Masood’s leadership, particularly the team's inability to dismiss opposition tailenders effectively. He cited examples from recent series against Bangladesh, where similar problems were observed despite changes in bowlers and conditions. 'There were too many lapses during the Bangladesh series, which we accepted considering our circumstances,' Aaqib said, adding that these issues continued even when different players and conditions were involved.
According to Aaqib, captaincy is not just about batting but also making sound tactical decisions such as using bowlers effectively, making decisions at the toss, and utilizing reviews. He emphasized that 'many things were being noted that were not moving in a positive direction.'
While praising Masood's batting skills, Aaqib explained that Babar’s return was based on the belief that he had grown as a leader over time. 'When you leave the captaincy, you reflect on your mistakes and try not to repeat them. If you get another opportunity, you are a more mature person,' he said.
The selection committee has also made other changes in the squad for upcoming matches. Fast bowler Ubaid Shah was picked due to his genuine pace, which provides a different option compared to most of Pakistan's fast bowlers who operate around 125kph. Left-arm spinner Ali Usman was preferred over Noman Ali because of his batting ability, with Aaqib saying he could contribute at No. 5 or No. 6 to provide greater balance.
Batter Awais Zafar was selected ahead of Kamran Ghulam based on his strong domestic form over the last two seasons. The PCB has also announced plans for a four-team one-day tournament in preparation for the 2027 ICC World Cup, aiming to identify Pakistan's strongest ODI pool.
Aaqib expressed confidence that the new central contracts, which require players to feature regularly in domestic cricket, would strengthen Pakistan cricket. 'We know the quality of our bowlers, but a captain must know how to use them,' he said, emphasizing the importance of tactical decisions and leadership.
Shan got a good run of almost three years as Test captain, but the progress we expected did not come.
Aaqib Javed, Pakistan Cricket Board member
We have now brought Babar Azam back because the same issues were being repeated.
Aaqib Javed, Pakistan Cricket Board member
