Babar Azam stepped down from Pakistan’s captaincy after the Men in Green failed to qualify for ODI World Cup 2023 semifinals.
New Delhi: Former Pakistan captain Babar Azam was gifted a customised crown by a fan, the picture of which went viral on social media. Like Virat Kohli, Babar is one of the most popular cricketers in the world and has a huge fan base. The 29-year-old posed for a picture with the crown.
Touted to be one of the top performers in ODI World Cup 2023, Babar failed to live up to his expectations with 320 runs in nine games including four fifties. His performances also had an effect on the team’s display as Pakistan could manage just four wins in nine games to exit the tournament in group stages.
Babar Azam was gifted a crown by a fan 👑
Via: @Rnawaz31888/X pic.twitter.com/uBPeCUoAhp
— Sport360° (@Sport360) November 21, 2023
Upon Pakistan’s ouster, Babar received a lot of criticism from outside before relinquishing his leadership duties last week. “Today, I am stepping down as captain of Pakistan from all formats. It’s a difficult decision, but I feel this is the right time for this call,” he wrote on X.
“I will continue to represent Pakistan as a player in all three formats. I am here to support the new captain and the team with my experience and dedication. I want to express my sincere thanks to Pakistan Cricket Board for entrusting me with this significant responsibility,” added Babar.
During Babar’s time as Pakistan captain, the Men in Green reached on top of ICC ODI rankings. “Reaching the No. 1 spot in white-ball formats was a result of the collective effort of players, coaches and management. Over the past four years, I have experienced many highs and lows on and off the field, but I have wholeheartedly and passionately tried to maintain Pakistan’s pride and respect in the cricket world,” he said.