Manchester, 22 September, 2026 (Kamran Raja): Legendary Pakistan fast bowler Waqar Younis has warned Pakistan about the impact of captaincy pressure on Babar Azam following the team’s 3-0 Test series defeat to England. Speaking at an event, Waqar praised Babar’s technical ability and described him as a complete and elegant batter, but said the additional responsibility of captaincy puts too much pressure on him and affects his performances. Waqar said Pakistan could risk losing a quality player if Babar is given leadership responsibilities that he struggles to handle, stressing that a captain must be strong, support his players and back them on the field. Babar was reappointed Pakistan’s Test captain after Shan Masood was removed from the role following Pakistan’s 2-0 series defeat to Bangladesh. His first assignment after returning to leadership was the two-Test tour of the West Indies, which ended in a draw. Babar missed the first Test against England due to injury, while Salman Ali Agha led the side in his absence. Babar returned for the next two Tests, but Pakistan lost both matches as England completed a 3-0 series sweep. Babar’s last Test century came in December 2022 against New Zealand.