Shahid Afridi reacts to Babar's appointment as white-ball captain

Taking to X (formerly Twitter), Afridi said: “I am surprised by the decision by very experienced cricketers in the selection committee.”

He rallied behind Pakistan wicketkeeper batter Mohamad Rizwan, saying, “I still believe that if change was necessary, then Rizwan was the best choice!”

“But since now the decision has been made, I offer my full support and best wishes to Team Pakistan and Babar Azam.”

Babar Azam’s father, Azam Siddique on Sunday urged the white-ball captain to respect senior players Mohammad Amir and Imad Wasim.

Taking to Instagram, Siddique said: “People are saying that there will be no unity in the team under the leadership of Babar Azam. I have explained to Babar Azam to forget what somebody had done in the past.”

“I have also told Babar to treat everybody in the team like brothers. As all the brothers will conquer the world with unity,” he added.