F.P. Report
LAHORE: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has decided to retain Babar Azam as the captain until this year’s World Cup played in India in October-November.
According to sources, the PCB took a decision in this regard after consultation with newly appointed team director Mickey Arthur.
They said that Arthur met PCB management committee chairman Najam Sethi, chief selector Haroon Rashid in the presence of Babar and expressed the confidence that the “team is fully capable of winning the World Cup,” with right guidance.
It is reported that Sethi has given him full authority to Arthur and has assured compliance with his suggestions.
Meanwhile, an official announcement to name Babar the captain in all three formats until the World Cup will be made soon.
It may be noted that Arthur has been entrusted with the task of designing, formulating and overseeing strategies for the Pakistan men’s team.
Arthur, 54, will also be a part of the coaching staff for the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023, away tour to Australia and home series against the West Indies. He will also be present with the side for Pakistan’s matches against India in the ACC Asia Cup.
It may be recalled that during his previous assignment with Pakistan team from 2016 to 2019, he coached the Green Shirts to No. 1 position in Tests and T20Is and helped the side to win the ICC Champions Trophy 2017.
