Overview
- Multiple outlets reported that selectors had promised Babar Azam a conditional pathway to become Pakistan’s all-format captain if he produced strong Test results.
- Selector Misbah-ul-Haq publicly denied any discussions about Babar returning as Pakistan’s white-ball captain, calling the reports rumours.
- Shaheen Afridi told reporters he remains Pakistan’s ODI captain and said the National Champions Cup will be used to build squad depth for the 2027 World Cup.
- Babar was restored as Test captain and led a 1-1 draw with the West Indies, with reports saying his all-format claim depended on performance in upcoming Tests in England.
- No formal PCB announcement has been made so the captaincy issue is unresolved and selectors’ next moves during the domestic tournament and pre-World Cup series will be watched closely.