The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Mohsin Naqvi has opened up about Babar Azam’s recent decision to step down as the national white-ball captain. The announcement from Babar, one of Pakistan’s finest batters, came last week via his social media, where he cited a heavy workload and a desire to focus more on his batting as the reasons behind his decision.

In his message to fans, Babar said, “Dear Fans, I’m sharing some news with you today. I have decided to resign as captain of the Pakistan men’s cricket team, effective as of my notification to the PCB and Team Management last month. It’s been an honour to lead this team, but it’s time for me to step down and focus on my playing role.”

Babar's decision has prompted discussions about his successor. During a recent media briefing, PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi addressed the issue, stating that he has instructed the selection committee to choose the next captain with "careful consideration" due to the importance of the role.

“I have told them to take a decision after careful consideration because the captain’s position is important,” Naqvi remarked.

This marks the second time Babar has stepped down from a leadership role. His first stint as captain ended in November 2023 following Pakistan's disappointing performance in the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup in India.

However, he was reappointed as white-ball captain in March 2024, leading Pakistan in three T20I series against New Zealand, Ireland, and England. Babar also captained the team in the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2024, where Pakistan experienced a historic low, crashing out in the group stage after heartbreaking losses to the United States and India.