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Who is the captain of Pakistan? There was a lot of confusion in the absence of Babar Azam

Sudev Haldar
2 years ago

New Delhi, Sports Desk. A strange incident was witnessed on the third day of the ongoing first Test between Pakistan Cricket team and New Zealand Cricket team in Karachi. With regular captain Babar Azam walking off the field unfit, there was confusion as to who was to lead the Pakistan team in his absence. Actually, Mohammad Rizwan came to field instead of Babar Azam, who is not a part of the playing 11.

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Rizwan was seen fielding on the ground

Rizwan was seen fielding on the field, as if he was carrying out the responsibility of leadership. The Pakistan team management nominated Rizwan as the caretaker captain of the team. But the confusion increased when wicketkeeper Sarfaraz Ahmed pointed to DRS to review Devon Conway. Nauman Ali’s ball hit straight on the pads of Conway, but on appeal the umpire declared not out. Then Sarfaraz Ahmed took DRS after consulting the bowler. The decision came in favor of Pakistan.

Sarfaraz Ahmed Stand-in Captain

Later it became clear that Sarfaraz Ahmed is the caretaker captain and not Rizwan. The Pakistan management was also informed that the substitute player is not allowed to lead the team. MCC Law 24.12 states – A substitute cannot bowl or captain. If the umpire agrees, then he can perform the responsibility of wicketkeeping.

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New Zealand took the lead

Talking about the match, Pakistan’s first innings was all out for 438 runs. In response, New Zealand scored 440 runs losing 6 wickets in 136 overs till the end of the third day’s play. The Kiwi team has taken a 2-run lead over Pakistan on the basis of first innings while it has 4 wickets left. At stumps, Kane Williamson is unbeaten on 105* and Ish Sodhi on 1*.