Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi has taken a measured approach regarding Babar Azam’s future as the national team’s captain. Speaking to reporters in Lahore, Naqvi emphasized that no decision has been made so far on the matter and that the future course of action will be determined after consultation with former players and head coach Gary Kirsten.

Naqvi’s remarks come in the wake of Pakistan’s dismal performance in the recently concluded T20 World Cup 2024, where they were eliminated in the group stage following losses to the United States and arch-rivals India. The PCB chief had earlier suggested that a “major surgery” was required to address the team’s issues.

“I have asked them (Kirsten and Mahmood) to come here as I want to talk to them in person and in detail based on Kirsten’s report on the World Cup,” Naqvi told reporters. “Kirsten has given a very detailed report on the team and it will help us a lot to chalk out our future course of action.

“The PCB chairman emphasized that he would not make any hasty decisions based on anger or social media reactions. “Decisions taken out of haste and anger generally lead to more complications and I don’t want that in our cricket,” he said.

Naqvi also revealed that he has been in touch with some former players and is seeking suggestions from them, but clarified that he is only communicating with those who genuinely want to see the betterment of Pakistan cricket.”I have been in the board for four months and I am looking at everything, and believe me, there is a lot to be done to improve things within the PCB besides the team. But I don’t want to jump to conclusions and make hasty decisions,” Naqvi added.

The future of Babar Azam’s captaincy remains uncertain, with several former players, including Shoaib Akhtar, criticizing his leadership and decision-making on the field. However, Naqvi’s cautious approach suggests that the PCB is willing to take a closer look at the team’s performance and the captain’s role before making any major decisions.

As the PCB embarks on a journey to revamp the national team, the outcome of the discussions between Naqvi, Kirsten, and Mahmood will be crucial in determining the way forward for Pakistan cricket and Babar Azam’s captaincy.