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Pakistan appoints Babar Azam as Test captain before summer tours

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 6, 2026, 8:54 AM

Last updated Jul 6, 2026

Pakistan appoints Babar Azam as Test captain before summer tours

Summary

Pakistan Cricket Board has reappointed Babar Azam as Test captain, replacing Shan Masood, ahead of a challenging summer schedule. Babar's return comes after Masood's tenure saw the team lose 12 of his 16 Tests, marking one of the bleakest periods in the team’s history. Babar led Pakistan previously from 2020 to 2023 with a mixed record. Now, he faces a crucial series against the West Indies and England, both formidable opponents and his first challenge in this second stint. His performance will be closely watched as the team seeks to improve after their recent string of losses.

Source Links

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By the Numbers

•Babar Azam returns as captain after a disappointing tenure by Shan Masood.
•Masood lost 12 of 16 Tests, a historic low for Pakistan.
•Pakistan prepares for a two-match series against West Indies in the Caribbean.
•Babar previously led Pakistan to 10 wins in 20 Tests from 2020 to 2023.
•Upcoming series against England will be Pakistan's first in six years.

Latest Updates

8:54 AMYahoo Sports — Pakistan turn back to Babar Azam as Test captain again: A second chance to rebuild after the Shan Masood era

What they're saying

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With Pakistan getting ready for a long summer of Test cricket, star batsman Babar Azam gets a second chance to lead his national side after being reappointed as captain.
— Yahoo Sports

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