In a dramatic development for Pakistan cricket, former national captain Azhar Ali has officially resigned from his administrative positions with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), ending a chapter that saw him shaping the future of young talent. Azhar, who has long been regarded as one of Pakistan’s most composed and technically proficient batters, stepped down from his dual roles as Director of Youth Development and National Selector.
The PCB has yet to issue an official statement, leaving fans and cricket insiders speculating about the reasons behind his departure. Sources close to the board suggest that internal disagreements, strategic policy differences, and recent structural reforms may have played a part in Azhar’s decision to sever ties.
Azhar Ali’s cricketing journey is notable not only for his on-field brilliance but also for his unique career path. He debuted in Test cricket in 2010 against Australia at the iconic Lord’s Cricket Ground before making his ODI debut—a rare trajectory for Pakistan cricketers. In only his second Test, he scored a vital 51 in a tense run chase, helping Pakistan secure a memorable victory and cementing his reputation as a reliable middle-order batter.
Beyond the early years, Azhar demonstrated his leadership credentials when he succeeded Misbah-ul-Haq as Pakistan’s ODI captain. Under his captaincy, Pakistan clinched their first Test series in Sri Lanka in nearly a decade, showcasing his ability to inspire and guide the team in challenging overseas conditions. Despite occasional dips in form—most notably in 2013, when his average fell below 20 in a seven-Test stretch—Azhar repeatedly bounced back, exemplified by his gritty 103 against Sri Lanka in the fourth innings.
His crowning achievement came in 2016, when he joined the elite ranks of Pakistan batsmen to score a triple century, placing him alongside legends like Hanif Mohammad, Inzamam-ul-Haq, and Younis Khan. Even after relinquishing the ODI captaincy in 2017, he played a pivotal role in Pakistan’s Champions Trophy triumph, with crucial half-centuries against England in the semi-final and India in the final.
Azhar’s resignation marks a significant shift in Pakistan cricket administration, leaving questions over who will take the reins in youth development and national selection. While the cricketing fraternity awaits the PCB’s official response, one thing remains clear: Azhar Ali’s legacy, both on the pitch and behind the scenes, is indelible.
Career Summary:
Tests: 97 matches, 7,142 runs, 19 centuries, 35 fifties
ODIs: 53 matches, 1,845 runs, 3 centuries, 12 fifties
Whether Azhar will return in another capacity remains uncertain, but his influence on Pakistan cricket, especially in nurturing young talent, will be remembered for years to come.