The Indus Examiner

April 2025
Peshawar Zalmi’s recent performances in the Pakistan Super League (PSL) have raised concerns regarding Babar Azam’s decisions as captain. While the star batter remains a key figure in Pakistani cricket, his leadership choices are starting to come under criticism after a series of disappointing results for the team.

Bowling Strategy Criticized

One of the main points of contention has been Zalmi’s inconsistent bowling performances, particularly in crucial matches. In a notable encounter against Islamabad United, the team struggled to defend a competitive target, with the bowling attack faltering during the final overs. Babar Azam himself described the bowling as “ordinary,” acknowledging the need for adjustments and better execution in future matches.

Leadership and Team Dynamics

Former cricketer Azhar Ali has weighed in on the leadership situation, suggesting that the team has been lacking in strong leadership since the departure of Darren Sammy. Ali emphasized that effective leadership is a key factor in PSL success and questioned whether Azam’s captaincy was the right fit for the challenges facing Zalmi.

Setback in PSL 2024

Under Babar Azam’s leadership, Peshawar Zalmi faced a disappointing exit from PSL 2024. Their run ended in a five-wicket defeat to Islamabad United in the second eliminator, a match that highlighted the team’s struggles and led to an early exit from the tournament.

Looking Ahead: Is Babar Azam’s Captaincy in Jeopardy?

The ongoing discussions about Babar Azam’s leadership could play a significant role in shaping the future of Peshawar Zalmi’s captaincy. With multiple stakeholders closely monitoring the situation, it’s likely that the franchise will assess whether a change in leadership is necessary for the team to reach its full potential in future seasons.

As Peshawar Zalmi prepares for the next PSL, there will likely be a renewed focus on refining their leadership and strategy to ensure better performance moving forward.