Mohsin Naqvi's PCB seal Babar Azam's future as Pakistan Test Captain. Image Credits: AFPAs the 3-game Test series against England is nearing its conclusion, the PCB, led by Mohsin Naqvi, have reportedly decided the fate of Babar Azam as captain, just a few months after his reappointment.The England tour has been nothing but a nightmare for Pakistan. First, they lost the first two Tests by a humbling margin. Then, the PCB abruptly overhauled the squad for the third Test overnight by recalling as many as 7 players along with head coach Sarfaraz Ahmed and bowling coach Wahab Riaz.Babar Azam’s captaincy future sealedWith the team going through turmoil, fingers were pointed at captain Babar as critics called him ‘weak’ for failing to manage the dressing room crisis.However, despite the outside noise and lack of desired results on the field, the PCB have no complaints with Babar. According to 365 News Pakistan, Babar Azam will retain his Test captaincy for the time being.He will likely lead Pakistan in their next Test assignment against Sri Lanka, where they will play two Tests at home in November. This is a major relief for Babar as he has been facing consistent criticism since his return as Test skipper.Under his reign, Pakistan drew the 2-game series against the West Indies and were on the verge of a series sweep defeat against England. And the dressing room troubles only added fuel to the fire. But for now, Babar's job is safe.Also Read - Babar Azam Openly Sides With Mohsin Naqvi Over His Pakistan TeammatesBabar Azam shows signs of life at EdgbastonHaving said that, Babar repaid PCB’s faith in the Edgbaston Test against England as he scored 76 runs in the second innings and knitted an 89-run partnership with Shan Masood.His knock helped Pakistan to avoid a collapse. Notably, Babar didn’t play the first Test at Leeds due to a finger injury. Yet, he recovered in time to become available for the rest of the series.While his captaincy may be up for debate, Babar Azam’s form as a batter is surely improving, which is a major positive sign for Pakistan in their quest to develop as a dominant Test nation.Babar creates new record as Pakistan captainMeanwhile, in the second innings of the third Test against England at Edgbaston, Babar Azam scored 76 runs from 103 balls, including 11 fours and a six. That innings helped him cross an important career landmark.Babar reached 7000 runs in international cricket while serving as captain, thus becoming only the second Pakistan captain to do so. Only Misbah-ul-Haq previously achieved this feat as captain, and now Babar has joined him in this exclusive club amid backlash. Interestingly, Misbah retired at 7392, meaning Babar needs only 392 runs to overtake him. And considering that he is set to continue as Test captain for a while, it's a possible task for Babar to add another feather to his captaincy cap.Also Read - What Is The Lowest Test Total Defended At Edgbaston, Birmingham Before PAK vs ENG 3rd Test 2026?
