REVEALED: Why Babar Azam resigned as Pakistan captain for second time in one year?

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Babar Azam made his fans aware about his resignation as the white-ball captain of the Pakistan cricket team with a X post at midnight. The star batter led the Pakistan team last in the T20 World Cup 2024 in the USA and the West Indies.

The 29-year-old had stepped down as Pakistan from all the formats after the team's forgettable run in the ODI World Cup 2023. However, he returned as Pakistan's T20I captain just a couple of months ahead of the T20 World Cup by replacing Shaheen Afridi, who had taken over the role after his first resignation.

But his comeback as captaincy did not pay any dividends once again. Pakistan had to settle for a 2-2 draw against New Zealand at home, lost a match against Ireland, a series against England, and then crashed out from the first round of the T20 World Cup 2024 after losing to the USA and India.

Explaining his decision to resign as Pakistan captain for the second time in one year, Babar Azam wrote that he wanted to focus more on his playing role by managing his workload. He added that the reduced responsibility will also help him spend quality time with his family.

"Dear Fans, I'm sharing some news with you today. 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 Azam wrote on X at 12:18 AM IST on October 2.

"It's been an honour to lead this team, but it's time for me to step down and focus on my playing role. Captaincy has been a rewarding experience, but it's added a significant workload. I want to prioritise my performance, enjoy my batting, and spend quality time with my family, which brings me joy.

"By stepping down, I will gain clarity moving forward and focus more energy on my game and personal growth. 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. Thank you for your love and support," he added.

The development also comes amid the ongoing captaincy debate in Pakistan cricket. Test captain Shan Masood is also facing a lot of criticism after the 2-0 whitewash against Bangladesh at home. The side lost their first Test match and series against Bangladesh.

Masood was retained as the Test captain, but was verbally heckled by a journalist during a press conference recently. Pakistan team's media manager had to step in and asked the journalist to show some respect to Masood.

"You say that as long as you're given the opportunity (to play and captain Pakistan), you will continue. But doesn't your conscience and self-respect ever tell you that you're losing, not being able to perform, quit and leave?" the journalist had asked Masood.

Pakistan's next white-ball assignment is a tough one. They will be touring Australia for three ODIs and as many T20Is in November. It remains to be seen who is named the next white-ball captain of Pakistan ahead of the series.