Babar Azam Demands All-Format Captaincy for Pakistan Return

Babar Azam has accepted the proposal to captain the Pakistan National Cricket Team in Test matches for the second time. His acceptance came with a significant condition: leadership across all three formats of the game. Pakistan selectors reportedly agreed to Babar's demand, aligning with a broader consideration of changes in ODI and T20I captaincy.

This move signifies a change from Shan Masood's leadership, which concluded with 12 defeats in 16 matches since December 2023. Previously, Babar Azam was removed from Test captaincy due to inconsistent batting form. However, his recent victory with Peshawar Zalmi in the Pakistan Super League 2026 season has strengthened his position.

Selectors met with Babar Azam prior to the squad announcement for the West Indies series. He agreed to reassume the captaincy, stipulating leadership in ODIs and T20Is as well. The selectors, while agreeing, have set a condition: satisfactory results in the upcoming five Tests against the West Indies and England will determine his all-format captaincy.

Pakistan's T20I captaincy has seen recent changes, with Shaheen Afridi and Salman Ali Agha both being replaced. Shaheen Afridi currently remains the ODI captain. The PCB took several months to appoint Babar Azam as Test captain after relieving Shan Masood.