Azhar refuses to step down as ODI captain: sources

LAHORE: Pakistan's One-Day International (ODI) skipper Azhar Ali has refused to step down as captain despite Pakistan's worst defeat in the ODI series against England, sources told Geo News on Thursday.

Azhar Ali has informed Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Shahryar Khan about his decision, sources said.

They said that the issue has been handed over to Chief Selector Inzamamul Haq and CEO PCB Subhan Ahmed.

They further said that Azhar Ali might even lose his place in the team.

Earlier, sources said that the ODI captain had decided to step down.

It was earlier reported that head coach Mickey Arthur and Azhar Ali held a two-hour-long meeting after the Cardiff ODI.

Sources had also said that Twenty20 captain Sarfraz Ahmed would also lead the ODI side.

Former Test player Sikandar Bakht said that Azhar Ali will have to accept PCB's decision.

"This is Pakistan's cricket team, not Azhar's. Who is he to take such decisions", Sikandar questioned.

Former Test captain Wasim Akram said it was not the right time to make Sarfraz Ahmed ODI captain.

"Sarfraz is Twenty20 captain. Unnecessary pressure should not be put on him", he added. 

Pakistan started off the England tour with a memorable win in Lord’s Test, but lost the two following Test before fighting back to win the last Test to level the four-match series 2-2.

However, the five-match ODI series turned out to be a nightmare for Azhar Ali and co where the home team outclassed visitors by 4-1.