Babar Azam has returned as Pakistan's Test captain, beginning his second stint with a two-match series against the West Indies. He replaced Shan Masood earlier this month, having previously led the team to 10 wins in 20 Tests. Babar's first tenure as captain included a 2-0 home series win over South Africa and away sweeps against Bangladesh and Sri Lanka. He averaged over 50 runs per innings as captain, with his only notable setback being a 3-0 home loss to England.

Before the start of his second captaincy, Babar said: "There is no pressure. I am confident, and the responsibility has been given to me again.

The main thing is getting the players to perform. The only thing that matters to me is that Pakistan wins. My experience as the captain taught me a lot, and I will try to make the right decisions for Pakistan cricket."

Masood's removal came after a difficult period in which Pakistan lost 12 of 16 Tests under his leadership. He had taken over from Babar in late 2023. Selector Aaqib Javed explained the decision, saying: "We wanted to look for a captain who could lead the team in a much better way. Shan's individual performance was good, but as captain, we weren't getting the desired results."

Javed confirmed that the selection committee was unanimous in recommending Babar for the role, with no other candidates considered.

Pakistan's Test results declined sharply under Masood, who began his tenure with a 3-0 loss to Australia. His side also suffered a first-ever home series defeat to Bangladesh, losing 2-0, and ended bottom of the World Test Championship points table. The only series win under Masood's captaincy came against England at home, where Pakistan won 2-1.

Javed highlighted several areas where Pakistan fell short under Masood's leadership, including losses to South Africa and the West Indies.

He noted that the captain bears responsibility for finishing games, as well as maintaining over rates, making DRS decisions and winning tosses.

Masood's personal form with the bat was consistent during his tenure, with two centuries and seven half-centuries, including back-to-back fifties in Melbourne against Australia.

Masood's personal form with the bat was consistent during his tenure, with two centuries and seven half-centuries, including back-to-back fifties in Melbourne against Australia.