Sarfraz Ahmed sacked as Pakistan captain, replaced by Azhar Ali and Babar Azam

Sarfraz has also been dropped from both the Test and T20 squads as a result of his struggles with the bat in recent times

Sarfraz Ahmed has been sacked as captain of Pakistan’s Test and T20 teams, with Azhar Ali and Babar Azam replacing the wicketkeeper.

Azhar will take over the running of the red-ball team, while Babar will lead the side in the international game’s shortest format. A decision on the sides’ vice-captaincy will be made in due course, while a new ODI skipper will be announced nearer the time of Pakistan’s series against the Netherlands in July.

Sarfraz has also been dropped from both squads as a result of his struggles with the bat in recent times. The move represents the first major move made by Misbah-ul-Haq since the former batsman was announced as head coach and chief selector of the national side.

PCB Chairman Ehsan Mani explained: “It has been a difficult decision to drop Sarfraz Ahmed, who has performed well as a player and a leader.

“But, his loss in form and confidence is visible and, in the best interest of the team, it has been decided to leave him out and provide him the opportunity to reflect and regroup himself and try to reclaim his form away from international cricket.

“Sarfraz Ahmed’s contributions are second to none and being the gutsy cricketer and fighter that we all know he is, I have no doubts he will be back in Pakistan colours at some stage.”

Azhar’s first assignment as Test captain will see Pakistan take on Australia in two Tests next month, in Brisbane and Adelaide, before hosting Sri Lanka and Bangladesh for two games apiece.

Babar, meanwhile, the world’s top-ranked T20 batsman, has been placed in charge for the next year up until the T20 World Cup.

Azhar previously had a two-year stint as skipper of the one-day side but has only ever captained Pakistan in a single Test match. Despite this, the 34-year-old holds a stellar Test record, passing fifty 46 times in 73 Tests.

^{Sarfraz was in charge when Pakistan won the Champions Trophy in 2017}

He said: “There is no bigger honour than to captain the Pakistan national cricket team in the pinnacle format of the game.

“I feel humbled, excited and privileged, and with the support of the team, look forward to justifying the faith that has been entrusted upon me for the World Test Championship.

“Sarfraz Ahmed has done an excellent job in transforming raw talent into experienced players and I now look forward to inspiring those skilful players in our endeavours to collectively achieve our World Test Championship objectives and beyond.

“These are exciting times in Pakistan cricket with a new team management. As a captain, I feel comfortable that there will be number of knowledgeable people in the hut who I can rely for advice and guidance.

“I am not only targeting wins, but also aim to provide opportunities to players to grow in stature and express themselves so that Pakistan cricket can resume its journey to the top. I have always played my cricket the hard way but in a fair manner, and will ensure I continue to uphold the spirit of cricket and enhance the image of the team and the country.”

Babar was appointed vice-captain for his country’s whitewash defeat Sri Lanka, but has established himself as one of the world’s finest players.

He added: “To be named captain of the No.1 ranked side in the world is the biggest thing that has happened to my career to date.

“I am ready for this challenge and also willing to learn more in the process. I feel it has been a natural progression for me and I am delighted that the PCB has put faith in my capabilities.

“Sarfraz Ahmed has led the side in the shortest format by example and it is my responsibility to take forward his accomplishments so that we remain a consistent, attractive and powerful side.”