Pakistan is proud of its cricketing heritage, which has a long list of legendary players. Babar Azam, the current captain of Pakistan, stands out as someone who has made a lasting impression. Recent difficulties under his leadership, however, have sparked suggestions about the necessity for a new captain. This article explores the qualifications of three candidates who might succeed Babar Azam as captain of Pakistan in One Day Internationals (ODIs).
3 Players Who Can Replace Babar Azam As Captain
Shaheen Afridi
In discussing who may succeed Babar Azam, Shaheen Afridi has become a key figure. This quick bowler has not only shown his talent on the pitch but also shown that he is a strong leader. Afridi’s leadership and vision as captain of the Lahore Qalandars in the Pakistan Super League (PSL) were on full display as his club won back-to-back titles.
Afridi has been Pakistan’s go-to bowler for quite some time now in international cricket, and for good reason. He constantly puts up impressive numbers. Given his track record as a leader and his performance on the pitch, it makes sense to choose him as captain.
2. Muhammad Rizwan
It’s not uncommon for wicketkeepers to step up as leaders thanks to their innate ability to read the game and remain calm under pressure. In international cricket, stars like MS Dhoni, Jos Buttler, Sarfaraz Ahmed, and KL Rahul have benefited from this pattern.
Mohammad Rizwan, one of the most seasoned players in the Pakistan side, stands out as a potential replacement for Babar Azam. In addition, he has excellent chemistry with Azam, which might make for a smooth leadership change. When a captain and vice-captain work well together, they can keep the squad together and inspired.
3. Shadab Khan
Shadab Khan, the all-arounder and current vice-captain of Pakistan’s one-day international side, is an intriguing option. Khan has seen leadership first-hand, having led the Men in Green in a pre-2023 World Cup warm-up match against Australia. His performance as vice-captain has hinted at his potential, although he has yet to lead Pakistan in an official ODI match.
The all-around skill of Shadab Khan is without reproach. He is an excellent batsman and bowler, and he also has the leadership qualities necessary to steer the team to victory. Khan might be a great replacement for Babar Azam if the team management thinks he can lead Pakistan in his absence.
The cricket squad from Pakistan has several talented individuals who have proven themselves in a variety of forms. But the team’s recent troubles under Babar Azam’s leadership have shown where they’re lacking. Particularly in the ODI format, it is crucial that the team has a captain who can bring out the best in these individuals.
Pakistan has struggled in the 2023 World Cup, with wins over the Netherlands and Sri Lanka overshadowed by defeats to India, and Australia, and a shocking setback to Afghanistan. Since Afghanistan had never before defeated Pakistan in an ODI match, this latter fact caused the most anxiety. This uneasiness has been exacerbated by Pakistan’s poor showing at the Asia Cup 2023 when they lost to India and Sri Lanka and ultimately finished in last place in the Super Fours phase. The future of Pakistani cricket seems to need a shift in strategy.
