Sun Oct 06 08:05:39 UTC 2024: ## Babar Azam Steps Down as Pakistan’s White-Ball Captain for Second Time
**Karachi, Pakistan** – Pakistan’s star batsman Babar Azam has resigned as captain of the national white-ball cricket team for the second time in less than a year, citing the need to focus on his batting performance and reduce his workload.
Babar’s decision comes after a disappointing period for Pakistan in white-ball cricket. Under his second stint as captain, the team has lost seven matches and Babar himself has endured a dip in form, failing to score an international fifty in his last 10 innings.
In a statement on social media, Babar expressed his gratitude for the captaincy opportunity but stated that he feels it is time to prioritize his personal growth and batting performance. “Captaincy has been a rewarding experience, but it’s added a significant workload. I want to prioritise my performance, enjoy my batting, and spend quality time with my family,” he wrote.
His resignation comes ahead of Pakistan’s upcoming Test series against England. Babar has been included in the squad for the series and Test captain Shan Masood expressed confidence in his ability to regain form.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is expected to announce a new white-ball captain after the Test series, with the next white-ball assignment being a tour of Australia in November.
Pakistan’s search for a consistent captain in white-ball cricket continues. The team faces a crucial period in the upcoming months as they aim to regain form and prepare for the ICC Cricket World Cup in 2027.
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