Calls Grow to Remove Babar Azam as Peshawar Zalmi’s Captain After PSL Losses

Islamabad:The pressure is mounting on **Babar Azam** to step down as captain of **Peshawar Zalmi** following the team’s poor performance in the ongoing **Pakistan Super League (PSL 10)**. Former cricketer **Basit Ali** has openly criticized Babar’s leadership, calling it a “bad deal” for the franchise. In a recent YouTube video, Basit questioned Babar’s tactical decisions and urged the franchise to relieve him of his captaincy immediately.

Basit pointed out a recent instance where a bowler, who gave away just 9 runs, was immediately replaced, while another bowler, who had been struggling, was given more opportunities. He further highlighted the decision to give **Saim Ayub** the new ball in one match, but then not repeating the move in the following game. Basit argued that such inconsistent decisions were harming the team’s performance.

Additionally, former cricketer **Sohaib Maqsood** expressed concerns over Babar’s leadership style. He stated that while Babar may appear relaxed on the field, his body language suggests underlying pressure. Sohaib emphasized that although Babar is a valuable player in the team, he may not be a “natural leader.”

Peshawar Zalmi has had a challenging start to the 2023 edition of PSL, losing both their opening matches. In the first game, they were defeated by **Quetta Gladiators** by 80 runs, and in the second, **Islamabad United** triumphed by a dominant 102-run margin.

The calls for a leadership change within the franchise are growing louder as the team struggles to find form in the tournament. Many believe that a shift in leadership might be necessary to turn around Peshawar Zalmi’s fortunes in the competition.