Pakistan cricket is navigating a period of upheaval, marked by coaching departures, leadership changes, and player dynamics. Amidst this turmoil, former captain Babar Azam has emerged as a beacon of hope, receiving a warm welcome upon his arrival in Australia for the upcoming white-ball series.
Despite a recent dip in form, fans eagerly awaited Azam’s arrival at the airport, eager to take selfies and offer words of encouragement. The viral video of his reception underscores his enduring popularity.
Azam returns to international cricket after being rested for the final two Tests against England. Relieved of the captaincy burden, he can now focus solely on his batting. He will feature in three ODIs and three T20Is against Australia before sitting out the Zimbabwe series to prepare for future challenges.
Off the field, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is grappling with turbulence following Gary Kirsten’s abrupt resignation as white-ball coach. Kirsten, who signed a two-year deal in April, departed after just six months, citing internal disagreements. The PCB’s decision to remove voting powers from coaches in team selection reportedly contributed to the friction.
With Kirsten’s departure, Test coach Jason Gillespie will guide the team on the Australia tour. Pakistan will begin training in Melbourne on November 1, with the first ODI scheduled for November 4.
As the squad seeks stability under new captain Mohammad Rizwan, all eyes will be on Babar Azam to rediscover his form and anchor the team through these crucial matches. His batting prowess and leadership qualities will be vital as Pakistan navigates this challenging period.
