Babar Azam has resigned as Pakistan captain across all formats following the side’s disappointing 2023 Cricket World Cup campaign.

In a statement released on X (formerly Twitter), Babar said: “I vividly remember the moment when I received the call from the 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.

“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 captain of Pakistan in all formats. It’s a difficult decision but I feel it is a right time for this call.

“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.”

Babar captained Pakistan in 20 Test matches between 2020 and 2023, winning ten, losing six and drawing four. He led the side in 43 ODIs and 71 T20Is. Under his leadership, Pakistan became the No.1 ranked men’s ODI side in the World earlier this year and reached the final of the 2022 T20 World Cup.

Under Babar’s captaincy, Pakistan recorded Test series wins over Bangladesh, Zimbabwe, South Africa and Sri Lanka.

However, having been tipped as potential title contenders for the 2023 World Cup, Pakistan were knocked out before the semi-finals. The lost to India, Australia, Afghanistan, South Africa and England, finishing in fifth place in the group stage table.

Babar came under repeated criticism for his side’s performance during the competition, with several prominent voices within Pakistan cricket calling for his resignation.

A successor has not yet been named.