Despite Pakistan’s disappointing campaign in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2024, former Indian coach Sanjay Bangar has voiced his support for Babar Azam to continue leading the team in future tournaments. The PCB had reappointed Azam as captain for the marquee event, following his resignation from all formats after the ODI World Cup 2023.
Babar Azam, who had stepped down from his captaincy role due to Pakistan’s underwhelming performance in recent matches, was reinstated because of his strong leadership record. He took over the T20 captaincy from Shaheen Afridi, who led the team during a losing away series against New Zealand.
Former Indian coach Sanjay Bangar Advocates for Babar Azam’s Captaincy
Speaking on Star Sports, Sanjay Bangar emphasized that Babar Azam is still the best candidate to lead Pakistan’s cricket team. Bangar advised Azam to be more assertive and decisive, particularly when it comes to using the Decision Review System (DRS).
“I still believe he is the best man to lead Pakistan,” Bangar stated. “He has to be a little bit more assertive in terms of the usage of the DRS as well. It seems that he is letting others influence his decision-making. As a captain, you have to be decisive. That’s a quality he can develop to enhance his leadership.”
Bangar highlighted the lack of alternative captaincy options within the Pakistan team, which led to Babar Azam’s reinstatement just before the T20 World Cup 2024.
“There is no alternative as well, because Pakistan tried to do away with his captaincy after the 50-over World Cup debacle. But they had to go back to him again. It clearly shows that there are not a lot of potential captaincy candidates. So stick with Babar, give him the team, give him a good support system around him so that Pakistan can do well in the next World Cup,” he added.
Pakistan’s early exit from the T20 World Cup 2024, failing to qualify for the Super Eight stage, underscored their current challenges. India and the USA emerged as the top two teams from Pool A, leaving Pakistan to reassess and rebuild under Babar Azam’s leadership.
Despite the setbacks, Bangar’s support highlights the confidence in Azam’s ability to guide Pakistan cricket towards a more successful future.
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