Pakistan national team batter Babar Azam stepped down on Wednesday as the team captain in all formats after the World Cup debacle.

Taking to X, Azam said, "I vividly remember the moment when I received the call from PCB to lead Pakistan in 2019."

“Over the past four years, I’ve experienced many highs and lows on and off the field, but I wholeheartedly and passionately aimed to maintain Pakistan’s pride and respect in the cricket world,” he added.

Babar said: “Reaching the number 1 spot in the white-ball format was a result of the collective efforts of players, coaches, and management but I’d like to express my gratitude to passionate Pakistan cricket fans for their unwavering support during this journey”.

“Today, I am stepping down as the captain of Pakistan in all formats. It’s a difficult decision but I feel it is a right time for this call,” he said.

He added, “I will continue to represent Pakistan as a player in all three formats. I am here to support the new captain and the team with my experience and dedication”.

“I want to express my sincere thanks to the Pakistan Cricket Board for entrusting me with this significant responsibility,” the 29-year-old cricketer added.

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— Babar Azam (@babarazam258) November 15, 2023

The development came after Babar Azam had held a meeting with PCB management committee chairman Zaka Ashraf. The PCB management committee chairman Zaka Ashraf summoned Babar Azam following his subpar performance in the ICC World Cup 2023 in India.