'Pakistan still has four crucial matches': PCB urges cricket fraternity in country to support Babar Azam and Co

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has urged the cricket fraternity in the country to support Babar Azam and Co as the Men in Green fight to stay alive in the World Cup 2023 semi-final race. Pakistan have lost three matches out of five so far and are on the brink of elimination from World Cup 2023. They have four matches to come in the World Cup and amid news of discord within the team, PCB has asked for the stakeholders to throw their weight behind the Pakistan cricket team.

World Cup 2023: News | Schedule | Results | Points table

“The PCB acknowledges the emotions and sentiments of cricket fans following the three consecutive defeats faced by the national team in the ICC World Cup 2023. In this challenging environment, the board administration hopes that the cricketing fraternity and fans will continue to support captain Babar Azam and the entire Pakistan cricket team,” PCB said in its statement.

“The national team still has four crucial matches remaining in the round-robin stage, and the PCB is optimistic that the team will regroup, overcome the setbacks and perform positively and effectively in the upcoming fixtures.”

The team has faced a lot of criticism from former players who have blasted captain Babar Azam, the squad, and the current PCB management for ‘mishandling’ the affairs.

PCB said that captain Azam and chief selector Inzamam-ul-Haq were given full freedom in selecting the squad. It also added that the board will make future decisions “in the best interest of Pakistan cricket”.

Read: Wasim Akram launches stinging attack on Pakistan cricket team

“Addressing the media scrutiny directed at captain Babar Azam and the team management, the board’s stance, echoing that of former cricketers, is that successes and defeats are part of the game. Captain Babar Azam and Chief Selector Inzamam-ul-Haq were given freedom and support in forming the squad for the ICC World Cup 2023,” PCB said.

“Looking ahead, the board will make decisions in the best interest of Pakistan cricket based on the team’s performances in the World Cup. At present, the PCB encourages fans, former players and stakeholders to rally behind the team as they strive to make a triumphant comeback in the mega-event.”

Pakistan’s next game is against in-form South Africa in Chennai on Friday.