Babar Azam is likely to be reappointed as Pakistan’s Test captain, with PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi reportedly giving the green light to the move. An official announcement is expected within days, ahead of Pakistan’s two-Test series against West Indies starting July 25.
The decision would replace Shan Masood, who has been under intense pressure after Pakistan lost 11 of its last 15 Test matches. Back-to-back defeats, including a highly criticized home series loss to Bangladesh last week, have raised questions over Masood’s leadership and the team’s direction. The 104-run loss in Dhaka on Tuesday triggered fresh calls for change.
Babar previously led Pakistan in 20 Tests between 2020 and 2023, winning 10, losing 6, and drawing 4 for a 50% win rate. He stepped down from all-format captaincy after the 2023 ODI World Cup but was reappointed as white-ball skipper in March 2024 ahead of the T20 World Cup. His last Test as captain was against Australia in December 2023.
PCB sources say the board wants stability before a busy Test calendar. Pakistan plays West Indies later this month, then hosts England for three Tests in August. Head coach Mike Hesson and senior selectors were consulted before Naqvi approved the change. “Influential figures in the PCB” believe this is the right time to bring Babar back to anchor the red-ball side.
Babar has not ruled out the return. Speaking before the PSL 2026 final, he said, “The captaincy issue is another thing right now… if in future such a situation arises I will always do what is in the best interests of Pakistan cricket.” He is currently playing in Australia’s Big Bash League with Sydney Sixers.
The plan reportedly extends beyond Tests. PCB is looking to rebuild across formats and is preparing Babar to take over the ODI captaincy again before the 2027 World Cup. Masood would continue as a batter if replaced.
No official PCB statement has been issued yet as of July 5, 2026, but multiple Pakistani journalists reports cite board insiders confirming the decision is final.
