"Want to prioritize my performance": Pakistan cricket captain Babar Azam steps down with immediate effect

Karachi: Babar Azam has announced that he will no longer captain Pakistan’s white ball teams, stepping down as skipper of both the T20 and One Day International sides.

The 29-year-old multi-format star had resumed his Pakistan captaincy for the shorter format teams in March of this year, but endured a disappointing T20 World Cup campaign and has subsequently also failed to rediscover his form in the Test format for Pakistan.

Faced with the challenge of overcoming the leanest spell of his previously exceptional career with the bat, Babar says he has taken the decision to step away from the captaincy in order to focus on getting his batting form back on track, an ICC report said.

“I have decided to resign as captain of the Pakistan men's cricket team, effective as of my notification to the PCB and Team Management last month,” Babar said in a statement released on his social media channels.

“It's been an honour to lead this team, but it's time for me to step down and focus on my playing role," he said

“Captaincy has been a rewarding experience, but it's added a significant workload. I want to prioritize my performance, enjoy my batting, and spend quality time with my family, which brings me joy," Babar said.

“By stepping down, I will gain clarity moving forward and focus more energy on my game and personal growth," he said.

“I'm grateful for your unwavering support and belief in me. Your enthusiasm has meant the world to me. I'm proud of what we've achieved together and excited to continue contributing to the team as a player," Babar said.

The 29-year-old is part of Pakistan’s test squad for the upcoming World Test Championship series against England, which starts on October 7 in Multan.